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Why men aren’t dating women…
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25 Questions to Ask Your Crush
25 Questions to Ask Your Crush
Navigating the early stages of attraction can be thrilling yet intimidating. When you’re drawn to someone, it’s natural to want to know more about them—but how do you ask the right questions without seeming too forward or putting too much pressure on the conversation?
As a dating coach, I’ve seen it all: the awkward silences, the overthinking, and the missed opportunities. But asking your crush thoughtful, engaging questions can spark deeper conversations and build a stronger connection.
Here’s a list of 25 questions to ask your crush—questions that will help you learn more about them, while also allowing you to show genuine interest without coming off as intrusive.
What I have done here is taken a look at some of the cliche type of questions that you could ask and alongside of them gave an example of what would add a bit more flavour and personality whilst giving you the same response.
Remember it’s always going to be about breaking patterns and the same to be true with our conversation.
If you are asking questions that seem generic then she may switch off into the dreaded ‘yawn zone’.
- What’s your perfect way to spend a weekend? / If I had to give you a week off work how would you spend it ?
This question helps you gauge their hobbies, interests, and whether you share any common ground. Plus, it opens the door to potential date ideas.
- What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try but never have? / When was the last time you allowed yourself to experience something for the first time ?
This shows curiosity about their dreams and aspirations. It also gives you insight into what they value or what excites them.
- Do you believe in love at first sight? / Have you ever been completely taken back after meeting someone for the first time ?
This question opens up a conversation about their perspective on love, which can reveal how they approach relationships.
- What’s the most memorable trip you’ve ever been on? / If you had to cast your mind back and be given the opportunity to live that one day out for the rest of your life, what would it be ?
Travel is a topic many people love discussing, and it can lead to sharing funny or meaningful stories, allowing you to bond over experiences.
- What’s your go-to comfort food? / What’s the sexiest thing in your fridge ?
Food is a universal topic, and this question not only allows for a light conversation, but it also helps you understand what brings them joy in their everyday life.
- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
This can reveal their sense of adventure, lifestyle preferences, or their desire for a specific culture or environment.
- What’s your favourite book or movie and why? / What are you currently reading ? / What’s a movie that you’ve seen that you feel is the most relatable to you ?
People’s taste in media often tells you about their personality. This question can also lead to deeper conversations about shared interests in films or books.
- What’s something that always makes you laugh? / What’s made you chuckle recently ?
Humour is a great way to connect. Whether it’s a comedian, a movie, or something quirky about their own life, humour tells you a lot about a person.
- Are you a morning person or a night owl? / What time do you normally have to wake up? / When’s bed time for you ?
This seemingly simple question helps you understand their lifestyle and daily rhythms. Plus, it’s an easy topic to joke around with.
- What’s your biggest pet peeve? / What’s your biggest Icke ?
Knowing someone’s pet peeves helps you understand what frustrates them, and sharing your own can create a sense of camaraderie.
- How do you usually spend your free time? / What’s your hobby ?
This question can help you learn what makes them feel relaxed or happy, whether it’s a hobby, sport, or social activity.
- What’s something you’re really passionate about? / What’s something that really get’s your juices going ?
When someone talks about their passions, it can lead to a really engaging and exciting conversation. Plus, it shows what drives them in life.
- What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
This question can open up a conversation about life values, personal growth, and the experiences that have shaped their mindset.
- What’s your love language?
Understanding someone’s love language can be incredibly insightful, especially if you’re exploring a potential relationship with them. This helps you understand how they express affection.
- What’s one of the most important lessons you’ve learned so far? / What have you learnt about yourself recently ?
This question taps into their life experiences and can lead to a meaningful conversation about growth and personal development.
- What’s something that really motivates you?
What drives a person tells you a lot about their goals, ambitions, and overall personality. Are they motivated by career, family, or personal growth?
- If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be? / If you had to host a dinner party and anyone could be there from past and present who would you put around the table ?
This question can lead to some fun historical discussions, and you can learn about their interests and values based on their choice.
- What kind of music are you into? / What’s on your playlist right now ?
Music is a great bonding topic. Whether you share similar tastes or find out about something new, music can be a way to connect emotionally.
- What’s the craziest thing you’ve done on a dare? / `What’s the wildest experience you’ve allowed yourself to explore ?
Everyone loves a good story, and this one might just reveal some wild or funny moments from their past.
- Do you believe in fate or do you think we create our own destiny? / Where are you at in terms of your spirituality ?
This philosophical question can lead to a deeper discussion about beliefs, values, and life choices.
- What’s one skill you’ve always wanted to learn? / What’s something new you want to explore ?
This question opens up a discussion about curiosity and personal development. It can also reveal opportunities for shared experiences, like learning something together.
- What’s your idea of a perfect date? / What’s the shittiest date you’ve ever been on ?
If you’re both into each other, this question helps you gauge what kind of romantic experiences they enjoy, which could lead to an ideal date idea in the future.
- What’s one thing you can’t live without? / What’s one thing you need in your life everyday ?
This reveals what’s truly important to them, whether it’s something material (like their phone) or something more abstract (like family or freedom).
- Do you have any hidden talents? / What’s your party trick ?
This question opens the door to learning something unexpected and fun about them. It can also lighten the mood and create a playful vibe.
- If you won the lottery tomorrow, what would be the first thing you’d do? / If you had all the money in the world how would you spend it ?
This question sparks a conversation about their dreams, values, and how they might spend their newfound wealth. It’s a fun way to learn about their priorities in life.
In Summary
Asking your crush the right questions isn’t just about gathering information—it’s about creating meaningful conversations that allow you to bond on a deeper level. The key is to keep things light, fun, and respectful. Don’t feel like you need to rush through all 25 questions in one sitting. Let the conversation flow naturally, and choose questions that feel right for the moment.
Ultimately, the goal is to get to know your crush better and find common ground. By asking open-ended, thoughtful questions, you can create an atmosphere of mutual curiosity, understanding, and excitement. So go ahead, ask these questions, and enjoy the journey of getting to know someone special!
Get in touch with dating coach Johnny Cassell today, and check out some his renowned courses such as remote coaching, group workshops and the popular 7 day programme!
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Bring joy into your life and let love find you… | Jo Barnett: Leading Men’s Dating Coach in London
Bring joy into your life and let love find you…
When was the last time you truly laughed from your belly, played like a child, or did something just for the fun of it?
So many people approach dating like it’s a second job full of pressure, strategy, and overthinking. It becomes exhausting and negative. Here’s the truth; love rarely shows up when you’re searching. It finds you when you’re living, laughing, and being your authentic self.
When you bring joy into your life, whether it’s dancing in your kitchen, trying a new hobby, travelling, or simply enjoying your own company—you naturally radiate a playful, magnetic energy. That lightness is irresistible. It tells the world – I am happy and ready to share this energy with the world.
Playfulness isn’t about being silly It’s about reconnecting with the carefree part of you that doesn’t need validation, that isn’t waiting to be chosen. Stop chasing love and allow life to evolve, it will.
So today, instead of asking “Where is he? Where is she?” ask: “What would bring me joy right now?” Then go do that thing.
Love is in the joy you share and the love you give to yourself every day.
For one-to-one coaching and help finding love book your consultation below;
https://datingcoach.me.uk/contact-jo-barnett/
Look forward to speaking soon
Jo Barnett
Dating Coach & Relationship Expert
One to one Coaching
Dating Advice
Single to soulmate
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Are Western Women Entitled?
If you hang out in any online male-focused group you will hear all about this.
“Modern Western women are too entitled to date nowadays, it’s pointless if you are not 6 feet 6 inches 6 figures”.
Is there any truth to this?

If you’re subscribed to my email newsletter you already know the answer: yes it’s true.
Modern women from Western countries in particular (Western Europe, North America) generally feel a strong sense of entitlement to men’s time, attention and resources.
In this article I want to explain why, to which extent and what to do about it.
By the way at the time of writing I have lived in over 20 countries and dated hundreds of women from various cultures which I why I believe my experience is relevant to the topic.
Because make no mistake, you can still very well get a rockstar dating life as a normal guy.
And by the end of this article you will understand why “entitlement” really is a non-issue.
Why Are Western Women So Entitled?
I must start this article by stating the obvious: not all women are the same.
You can find many very humble and down to Earth women in the West, the same way there are shallow women from other countries/cultures.
But it is true western women have a tendency to simply not value men as much as other cultures. Which is by the way why I would recommend anyone looking for a devoted long term partner to raise their kids to look towards Asian and more traditional countries.
Back to the topic at hand…
There are 3 main reasons or “influences” pushing women towards entitlement.
I don’t like to quote Andrew Tate but he was right on that one :
“Women are either influenced by society, or by the man they date”.
Because nobody is born entitled, it is learned behavior. In my eyes those 3 influences are:
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Cultural influences
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Psychological biases
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Economical factors
Cultural Entitlement
You saw it coming: feminism. While feminism has achieved significant progress, some interpretations have led to an expectation of special treatment and entitlement.
Getting a Participation Trophy “Just Because”
Some women believe that they should get all the benefits of being a man with none of the disadvantages – and of course that is a personality flaw and a red flag.
It doesn’t help that we live in a society where everyone gets a “participation trophy”.
Extremely attractive and deserving women being entitled is one thing, they worked for it.
Hours at the beauty salon, painful surgeries, thousands of squats, days spent supporting their loved ones.
But when even women who never set a foot in the gym or the nail salon believe they will get their reward in the end “just because”, then there is a problem.
Social Media is P*rn to Women
Social media only goes to exacerbate the problem because it gives even mid women access to men’s attention without lifting a finger.
It is my strong opinion that social media is to women what p*rn is to men. And you know what happens when you watch too much porn. You get a wrong sense of reality and substitute actual human interactions with pixels on a screen.
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You become lazy and expect quick, cheap dopamine
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You dehumanize and objectify people
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You can’t relate to others anymore
But again this is a character flaw and simply a bad habit that smart women will fix.
This is not a female only problem by the way – lazy men too feel entitled to greatness.
Keep it in mind and never stop working on yourself.
Life does not, in fact, give out participation trophies.
Psychological Entitlement
I touched on social media above, it creates a ton of obvious problems.
Let’s take an average woman. While in real life she’d get approached maybe 2-3 times a week, as soon as she shows some cheeks on Instagram she’s getting 5-10 new DMs from thirsty random guys EACH DAY.
Now imagine what it’s like for a slightly above average woman lol. Hard to not become at least a little bit narcissistic.
In fact a while ago I asked my sexy DJ girlfriend to show me what her IG inbox looked like.
Dozens upon dozens of DMs from strangers trying to slide.
Of course women get an inflated ego from social media.
How could they not? How would you react if you received 10 messages per day from random girls asking you out?
The Cognitive Bias of Entitlement
Add to this the usual human psychological bias : we all hate taking responsibility.
One of the girls I approached turned out to be a model. And without being too stereotypical, let’s just say models are not usually the most spiritual women.
We went on a date and she spent a good 45 minutes explaining to me how hard her life was, and how she was lonely, and how it was everyone’s fault.
So yeah, I left right after we were done eating our ice cream.
But this illustrated perfectly this phenomenon: we as human beings have a tendency to blame others and expect others to solve problems for us.
Now couple this fact with being a woman and being hot, you know you will always have a line of guys ready to solve 100% of your problems.
If that were you, wouldn’t you be tempted?
A Fake Reality
On top of that, social media tends to portray a very skewed society.
You only see attractive people on social media because people like to see attractive people.
And the algorithm just pushes more of what people like to see.
But if the majority of what you see is attractive, it doesn’t mean that in reality the majority of the population is like that.
It’s kind of like saying all the people you see in movies are attractive, so most of the population gotta be attractive.
No, they are actors in movies BECAUSE they are attractive.
The people you see on social media, you see them BECAUSE they are attractive.
But go explain that to a 21 years old lol.
All she sees are hot girls and cool guys on Instagram, therefore that’s what reality must be, right? Right?!?
Economical Entitlement
Now let’s address the $$$ question.
To a lot of women, it is just normal for men to provide. It is not related to being attracted to them, it is not even related to dating. To some women, men are just the ones who pay, period.
And there is an argument to be made here: men traditionally are the ones who bring in the money. So some women may feel entitled to a man’s money just for the sake of being his companion. You see this a lot in Asian and Eastern European countries.
But hey, in Western countries we have social security!
So why need men anymore? Strong boss women can pay for themselves, and when they can’t, the society (that’s built and supported by men) will.
The Hypergamy Trap
If even money is not a concern, why need a man?
This line of thinking is why women feel entitled to only the best men. And by best I mean “better than them”.
This is what entitlement creates. Women are choosers, men are beggars
Always trying to outdo each others for crumbs.
Is it a game you want to play? Always competing, trying to be better than the next guy for a bit of female attention?
This is a TRAP because this is NOT a game you can win.
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There is always a guy who is more fun than you.
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There is always a guy who is wealthier than you.
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There is always a guy who is taller, fitter, better endowed than you.
And of course if you are an average guy: just forget about it.
So why even play that game?
I have a solution for you below…
Western Women are Entitled – So What?
Being entitled is simply a character flaw among others. There’s a bunch of very nice girls who never use social media, always pay for their own drinks, etc.
As a man you are always free to walk away from someone you dislike if they just suck as a person.
At the end of the day I am trying to convey mainly this one things through this article:
It is what it is – so what are you gonna do about it?
And to be fair, if us men were in the situation women are in right now, can we say that we wouldn’t act exactly the same way?
Would you not put your Venmo link in your Instagram bio knowing very well it just works and takes 0 effort?
I don’t know about you, I love it when girls treat me to dinner, I can’t say I’d act differently if the roles were reversed… 🙂
But also, and more importantly, it does not even matter.
Because when you understand how to attract women you can simply stop playing that silly entitlement game.
You win the game by not playing it.
Do Not Play The Entitlement Game
What works now is to focus on displaying why you are attractive first and foremost.
She needs to know why talking to you is a win from the get-go.
Later, you can be nice, you can take care of her, you can provide, you can wife her up, etc.
But there is an order to these things. You have to do the right thing at the right time. If you don’t know what I am talking about, watch my video on how seduction works.
And so, women being “entitled” is not a problem when you know what to do.
It’s not a problem when instead of playing by these rules (be a nice provider, etc) you play by different rules.
Attraction Beats Entitlement
I see it every time I go out and mingle. I talk to people in a certain way, and girls stop listening to their boyfriends to chase for my attention.
(Honestly it’s gotten to such a point it’s become a problem for me now as other guys who do not know about seduction & pickup often get jealous but that’s a whole other topic ………..)
Yes women might feel entitled to men’s attention, yes they might act blasé when guys try to get to know them or to buy them drinks…
But again, these are dating rules from the past.
When you embody the behaviors that are inherently attractive to women, however entitled she feels becomes irrelevant because now she is chasing you.
And getting women to chase you solves all the problems:
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When she is chasing you she is paying attention to every single thing you say.
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When she is chasing you she wants to prove to you that she is a good girl.
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When she is chasing you she is not trying to get free drinks/meals/dinners out of you.
She just wants you to like her and give her attention.
And women love that. Because no other guy EVER makes them even WANT to chase.
Attraction is NOT a Choice
Trust me, the world would be a better place if more men “behaved attractive” by default, but it’s not where we’re at currently.
In simple words, most guys behave “beta” (I know, that’s an oversimplification, but you get my point). They act in ways that repel women. They do not act in ways that compel women.
And when once in a blue moon there’s a guy who does not, that guy stands out.
That’s why you need to understand the triggers that generate attraction in a woman for a man.
Be the one she makes exceptions for.
Because a woman being attracted to a man is not a conscious choice.
It’s a result of various factors. Of course, everyone is on a spectrum. But at the end of the day everyone is more or less the same.
For example every human being more or less enjoys the taste of sweet food. That’s how our brains are wired. Because being able to recognize food that is helpful to our survival is hard wired into our brains for thousands of years.
In the same way, every woman on Earth more or less enjoys specific attractive behaviors and traits in a man.
If you “behave attractive” women will have no choice but to be attracted to you.
Now bear in mind that generating attraction alone is not enough to get plenty of dates, but knowing this will already put you above most of the male population by a longshot.
The Attraction Triggers
This is literally the cheat code to date modern women.
While all the other guys grind and chase women for very little results…
You can flip the script and get women to chase you.
To completely negate however entitled they may be.
Here is one very simple, concrete example of how you can flip the script :
The next time a woman asks you what you do for a living, reply with 1-word answers.
Instead of being an open book, make her work for her answer. And watch as she starts chasing and asking you for more.
And it’s just an example.
There are many other things you can do to get entitled women to feel “oh, getting this guy’s attention is not easy, let me try harder”.
If you want to dig deeper, I’ve got a free course that goes deep into these attractive traits and behaviors, you can watch it here.
Max
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Why Women WANT Older Men (The TRUTH)
After working with hundreds of men in their 40s, 50s, and 60s and helping them date much younger women, I’ve noticed some consistent patterns. Many younger women are naturally attracted to mature men and often gravitate towards them for reasons like safety, stability, and emotional maturity. Based on these insights, I’ve developed three golden rules for older men to date younger women.Rule #1: Embrace Your Age as an Advantage
You need to understand and internalize the fact that being older is a benefit, not a drawback. Many younger women are genuinely attracted to older men. Studies show that women mature emotionally faster than men and often prefer partners who match their level of emotional maturity.
For example, women typically reach emotional maturity in their 20s, and many feel more mentally aligned with older men. I’ve heard countless stories from women who say they’ve always been attracted to mature, experienced men.
Additionally, women tend to value status and stability, which older men often possess. Unlike men, who are generally less concerned with a woman’s status, women are drawn to men who have achieved a certain level of success and stability. This aligns with their biological and emotional needs, as most women want serious relationships and families sooner than men do.
While younger men may seek casual relationships, older men are often more ready to commit and share the same family goals. Furthermore, older men often exude a mature, masculine energy—what we call the “provider and protector” vibe—which is deeply attractive to women.
Rule #2: Own Who You Are
Not every younger woman will be interested in dating an older man—and that’s perfectly okay. Some women might not be comfortable with an age gap, but many others will be. One of my favorite sayings is: “Some will, some won’t, so what?”
The biggest hurdle older men face when approaching younger women is the fear of being seen as “creepy.” While no one wants to be labeled this way, remember: intentions matter. If your intentions are good—if you’re respectful and genuinely interested—you’re not creepy.
Biologically, men are naturally attracted to younger, fertile women. It’s simply how we’re wired, and there’s no shame in that. The key is to project confidence and sincerity. Women pick up on your energy, so if you believe in yourself and your worth, that confidence will shine through.
Rule #3: Meet Women in Real Life (IRL)
Online dating can be challenging for older men because many younger women set strict age filters. However, in real life, a woman won’t immediately know your age—she’ll only experience how you make her feel.
When you meet someone in person and make her feel special, sexy, and safe (what we call the “three S’s”), she’s more likely to overlook any preconceived notions about age. The emotional connection you create face-to-face far outweighs what can be achieved through an online profile.
For example, I once approached a woman while she was shopping. After making her laugh and feel at ease, we ended up dating for four years. She later admitted she wouldn’t have considered me on a dating app because I didn’t fit her “type.” This highlights the importance of in-person interactions.
Go to places like upscale lounges, daytime shopping areas, singles events, and concerts to meet women. Approach them with confidence and sincerity, and if they’re not interested, don’t take it personally. At the very least, you’ll brighten their day—and boost your own confidence in the process.
Bonus Tips for Success
- Dress Your Age: Avoid trying to dress like someone in their 20s. Women are attracted to the maturity and stability you represent, not someone pretending to be younger. Invest in stylish, age-appropriate clothing that reflects your confidence.
- Be Authentic: Confidence comes from knowing who you are and owning it. Women are drawn to men who are comfortable in their own skin.
If you want to take your dating life to the next level, we offer live coaching programs designed to help you meet and attract younger women. In our workshops, we’ll teach you how to spark attraction, build confidence, and eliminate any insecurities or limiting beliefs. You’ll also get hands-on practice interacting with younger women to refine your skills in real-life settings.
Interested? Click the link below to book a call and see if our program is a good fit for you. In just 90 days, you could transform your dating life—and gain the confidence to attract the woman of your dreams.
Want Live Coaching?
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I found another woman's núdes on my boyfriend's phone. His reaction was priceless-Dating Stories
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Handling Holiday Stress With In-Laws
How to Navigate the Holidays With In-Laws
I know it’s only September, but the holidays will be here before we know it!
Here’s the truth: the holidays will come and go, but your marriage is forever! The way you and your spouse handle in-law stress this season can either bring you closer together or drive a wedge between you. The good news? You absolutely can keep your relationship strong and maintain peace with family if you’re intentional. Let’s talk about how!


A married couple visits their in-laws during the holidays, sharing a warm hug at the front door with festive décor. Table of Contents
- How to Navigate the Holidays With In-Laws
- Why Holidays With In-Laws Can Feel So Stressful
- 1. Present a United Front With Your Spouse
- 2. Make Holiday Plans Together Before the Invitations Roll In
- 3. Set Boundaries With In-Laws in a Kind but Firm Way
- 4. Respond to Criticism or Unsolicited Advice Gracefully
- 5. Prioritize Couple Check-Ins No Matter How Busy the Holidays Are
- Remember: It’s Temporary
- The Holiday Huddle Challenge
- Textable Holiday Huddle
- One Last Reminder for the Holidays
Why Holidays With In-Laws Can Feel So Stressful
The holidays are supposed to be filled with joy, love, and connection. And yes, they can be magical—sparkling lights, cozy traditions, and moments that bring you closer as a family. But if we’re being real? They can also be some of the most stressful weeks of the year. Between travel, schedules, gift-giving, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. Add in-laws into the mix—different expectations, old family dynamics, or opinions flying left and right—and suddenly, the season of “peace and goodwill” can feel more like walking on eggshells.
Here’s the thing: you’re not alone if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or drained by holiday family gatherings. Nearly every couple experiences stress during this season, even in the happiest of marriages. The pressure to make everyone happy while also trying to protect your own relationship is a lot.
But here’s the good news: holiday stress doesn’t have to ruin your marriage or your holiday season. With a little preparation, teamwork, and a united mindset, you and your spouse can navigate family dynamics, protect your peace, and actually enjoy the holidays together.
1. Present a United Front With Your Spouse
One of the quickest ways to create tension is letting in-laws see you disagree in the moment. If you’re not on the same page, it can feel like your family members have an open invitation to step in or push boundaries. That’s why it’s so important to talk things through with your spouse before the family gatherings begin.
Ask each other questions like:
- “How long do we want to stay?”
- “What’s our plan if politics or religion come up at dinner?”
- “What do we do if someone criticizes our parenting?”
Once you’ve decided together, stick with it. If in-laws question your choices, a simple phrase like “Thanks for your input—we’ve decided to do it this way” goes a long way. The key is showing them you and your spouse are a team.


A married couple shares a supportive hand squeeze under the table during a holiday family dinner. 2. Make Holiday Plans Together Before the Invitations Roll In
So much stress comes from trying to please everyone. Instead of letting extended family dictate your schedule, sit down as a couple and decide what works best for you. Maybe you rotate holidays every year, split the day between both families, or start your own traditions at home.
The important part is that the decision is yours—not your in-laws’. A united decision helps both of you feel supported, instead of pulled in different directions. And don’t forget to add at least one “just us” tradition, whether it’s new pajamas on Christmas Eve, sneaking out for a late-night hot cocoa run, or a Thanksgiving morning walk. Those little rituals anchor your marriage no matter where you spend the day.
3. Set Boundaries With In-Laws in a Kind but Firm Way
Boundaries are not mean—they’re healthy. They protect your marriage from burnout and resentment. It might sound like:
- “We’d love to stay for dinner, but we’ll need to head out by 8.”
- “We can host, but this year we can only do three days instead of a full week.”
When you communicate calmly and kindly, you’re modeling respect while also keeping your marriage a priority. Remember: boundaries are about what you’re able to do, not about controlling others.


A wife talks on the phone with her in-laws during the holidays, glancing at her husband for confirmation about plans. 4. Respond to Criticism or Unsolicited Advice Gracefully
It happens to the best of us—an in-law questions your parenting, criticizes your cooking, or offers unsolicited advice about your marriage. Ouch. The key is to decide ahead of time how you’ll respond.
Sometimes a simple “Thanks, we’ll keep that in mind” is all you need. Other times, it may be best to smile and change the subject. The less defensive you are, the quicker the moment passes. Talk through these scenarios with your spouse beforehand so you both feel confident and supported when the comments inevitably come.
5. Prioritize Couple Check-Ins No Matter How Busy the Holidays Are
Don’t forget to nurture your connection in the middle of all the holiday chaos. Steal a hug in the kitchen, send a flirty text across the dinner table, or laugh together over an inside joke when Uncle Bob tells his story for the tenth year in a row. Later that night, decompress with a cozy cocoa date after everyone leaves.
These little check-ins remind you that you’re in this together. They transform the holidays from “just surviving” to “thriving as a team.”
Remember: It’s Temporary
When all else fails, remember this—holiday gatherings are temporary. The awkward dinner table moments, the unsolicited advice, the too-long visits… they’ll be over before you know it. Don’t let one tense conversation steal your joy or cause unnecessary strain on your marriage.
At the end of the day, it’s not about pleasing everyone else—it’s about protecting the bond between you and your spouse. Choose your battles wisely, let the little stuff slide, and focus on the bigger picture: you’re building a life and a marriage that lasts long after the holidays are over.


A married couple snuggles under a blanket on the couch with cocoa after a holiday gathering, Christmas tree glowing behind them. The Holiday Huddle Challenge
Want to take this to the next level? This holiday season, try the Holiday Huddle Challenge with your spouse. Think of it as your game plan for staying connected and united—no matter what family drama or awkward moments come your way.
Here’s how it works:
- Pick a Signal. Before heading into family gatherings, choose a secret signal with your spouse. It could be a hand squeeze, a wink, or even a silly word like “snowman.” It’s your private way of saying, “I’m with you. We’ve got this.”
- Back Each Other Up. Anytime one of you feels overwhelmed, uncomfortable, or just plain over it, the other steps in with support. That might mean changing the subject, reinforcing a boundary, or simply staying close by.
- Check In Afterward. Once you’re home, take a few minutes to debrief. What moments felt the best? When did you feel the most supported? What could you do even better next time?
The beauty of the Holiday Huddle is that it’s not just for the holidays. You can keep using it all year long: at family events, work parties, or any stressful situation where you want to feel like a team. You can even change up the name for the other nine months of the year… Perhaps, Marriage Huddle?
💡 Bonus tip: make your signal fun and flirty! The sillier or sweeter it is, the easier it will be to diffuse stress and remind each other that you’re in this together.
Textable Holiday Huddle
Want to make your Holiday Huddle even more fun? Try sending these flirty texts before, during, and after family gatherings. They’ll keep you connected all season long!
Before the gathering (pump-up message):
- “Holiday Huddle activated! Remember, it’s me + you against the chaos. ❤️”
- “We’re a team today. Hand squeeze = I’ve got you.”
- “Let’s make our signal word snowman. You ready, teammate?”
During the gathering (signal reminders):
- “Snowman. 😉 I’m right here with you.”
- “You and me, side by side. We’ve got this.”
- 🎄❤️🤝 (tree + heart + handshake = our code).
After the gathering (debrief love note):
- “Holiday Huddle complete ✅ You made me feel so loved tonight.”
- “You were my safe place today. I love being on your team. 💕”
- “We survived the holidays like pros. Want a cocoa debrief date? ☕✨”


A husband squeezes his wife’s hand while she stirs a pot in the holiday kitchen, surrounded by family. One Last Reminder for the Holidays
This holiday season, make a vow to put your marriage first. When you and your spouse stand united, even the trickiest in-law situations lose their power to divide you. Remember, the holidays are about love, gratitude, and connection—and your marriage deserves to be at the center of it all.
💌 Want more ways to stay close during the holiday madness? Check out our Holiday Date Night Ideas for inspiration.

