Originally posted by Scott and Bethany Palmer on The MoneyCouple.com

Pop open the champagne and toast to a new money relationship! In the past year, you might have skipped out on a few money huddles, argued about everyday money issues, or hesitated to reveal certain impulse purchases to your partner. As a couple you might have spent too much on date night, or cut back on vacation time with your family because of a tighter budget. You might even be suffering from a holiday-spending hangover, but none of that matters now! January 1 is a clean slate, and it’s yours for the taking!

Reclaim and revamp your Money Relationship with your partner, and do the following:

1. Celebrate the Victories - It wasn’t all bad. Sure, you might have had some Money Relationship slip-ups, but focus on the things that you did right. Over a nice dinner, celebrate the strides you made to fulfill your dreams as a couple. You might have been able to save enough for a future weekend getaway, or you might have met your investment savings goal. Say them out loud - list them on your fingers.

2. Discover something NEW - It’s time to do some digging. Take some time to reflect on the state of your relationship over the past year. Think about times that you made financial decisions together, where you butted heads, and talk about it together. Make it a priority to shed new light on and learn more about your money personalities in the New Year - your marriage will thank you.

3. Recommit to your Love & Money Vows - Get out your pen and paper and write down your Love & Money Vows. The top two items should be “no money fights” and “no financial infidelity.” If you feel an argument about money bubbling to the surface, as The Money Couple says, “Stop, drop, and roll out of the conversation,” tabling it for your next Money Huddle. Don’t forget that financial infidelity of any kind (lying, cheating, secret accounts) is a relationship killer. Vow to take the time to rebuild the trust. Hang your vows on the fridge as a daily reminder to you and your spouse.

4. Dream the dream - Set aside some time with your partner to dream up one goal that you want to work towards as a couple in 2012 - whether it’s a vacation or getting ready for a new baby. This will remind you that you and your spouse are moving forward together.

Here’s to a great Money Relationship in 2012!

Make It Happen!