As 2014 comes to a close, why not consider giving your relationship an MOT?

The end of the year is a great time to think about what’s working and what isn’t. You can set strong intentions about the changes and improvements you want to make for the coming year.

Throughout January we will list some key questions to consider as you give your relationship an annual check-up. And in the mean time, here’s a ‘healthy couple’s checklist’ for 2015, so that you can make sure you are investing positively in your relationship on a weekly basis.

Healthy couple's check-list

This week, did we do the following?

• Discovered something new about each other
• Kissed passionately or hugged every day
• Been playful, had fun or laughed together
• Spent focused time together
• Said ‘sorry’ when we messed up or hurt each other
• Looked for ‘us’ solutions to any issues
• Expressed appreciation and gratitude to each other
• Demonstrated or vocalised our love
• Avoided shouting, nagging, sulking or criticising
• Created at least one shared memory

More inspiration:

Watch Psychologies' editor Suzy Greaves interview Sarah Abell on How to love more in 2015 on LifeLabs

Read Ten lessons from ten years of marriage by Sarah Abell on LifeLabs

Sarah Abell is an author, speaker and coach, who specialises in helping people live, love and lead authentically. She is the founder of nakedhedgehogs.com. To buy her LifeLabs Practical Wisdom online course How to Save Your Relationship, please click here. You can try a free 3-day taster trial first too.

Photograph: Gallerystock