Are you ready to take your relationships to the next level this year? Whether you’re looking to improve your connection with your spouse, spend more quality time with your kids, or foster better communication with your parents, there are plenty of ways to get started. Here are just a few of the top tips for improving your relationships at home this year.

1. Talk Openly, Honestly, and Often

We all know that communication is key, but it’s especially important for relationships. If you’re not used to talking openly and honestly with the people you’re close to, it can be tough to start. But it’s worth it! Make an effort to sit down and have regular conversations with the people you’re closest to. Talk about your hopes, dreams, fears, and anything else that’s on your mind. The more you open up, the closer you’ll become.

Learn to also talk about touchy subjects. For example, according to a recent survey, only 37% of senior citizens in the United States have established advance directives for end-of-life care. This leaves a lot of room for misunderstanding and disagreement within families. If you haven’t had the conversation about your end-of-life preferences with your loved ones, now is the time to start.

2. Make Time for Each Other

In today’s busy world, it can be hard to find time for the people we care about. But if you want to improve your relationships, it’s important to make time for each other. Whether you schedule regular family nights or date nights with your spouse, carve out some time each week to focus on your loved ones. You’ll be glad you did.

3. Be Present

When you’re with the people you care about, be present. That means when you are at home putting away your phone, turning off the TV, and giving them your full attention can help. It might seem small, but it makes a big difference. If you want to show someone that they matter to you, give them your undivided attention for some time each day.

It’s also important to be present at the moment for yourself, rather than living in the past or worrying about the future. Try to focus on the here and now, and enjoy your time together.

4. Listen More Than You Talk

We all like to be heard, but sometimes we need to step back and just listen. When talking to your loved ones, really listen to what they’re saying. Hear their words, feel their emotions, and try to understand their point of view. It’s not always easy, but it’s a skill worth learning.

Listening can be especially important when you’re dealing with conflict. Instead of getting defensive, try to truly understand where the other person is coming from. You might be surprised to find that you have more in common than you thought.

5. Be Willing To Reflect and Learn From Your Past

It takes about three years for most people to get married again after a divorce. And yet, it’s not unusual for people to make the same mistakes in their next relationship that they made in their last one. If you’re hoping to improve your relationships this year, be willing to reflect on your past and learn from your mistakes.

What didn’t work in your previous relationships? What did you do that caused problems? What could you have done differently? By taking the time to learn from your past, you can be more conscious of your actions in the present, leading to healthier, happier relationships.

6. Talk About Finances and Budgets

Money is one of the leading causes of stress in relationships. If you and your partner are constantly arguing about money, it’s time to sit down and talk seriously. Talk about your financial goals, budget, and what you’re willing to spend money on.

This is especially important for big-budget projects, for example, car purchases, buying a home, remodeling, or home repair. Remember, even something as simple as a foundation repair can cost as much as $4,640. By getting on the same page financially, you can reduce stress in your relationship.

Improved relations don’t just happen. We all have to work at it. Hopefully, these tips will help you to improve your relationships this year. Take the time to invest in the people you care about, and you’ll be glad you did.