Teaching the Newlywed Workshop is always insightful. Each time, it’s interesting to hear which concepts feel natural to couples, which tools feel accessible, and which ideas push them outside their comfort zones.

One couple recently commented that many of the tools seem like common sense—but only once someone points them out. That observation really resonated.

A favorite concept for many is “Turning Toward”—a term from Dr. John Gottman that refers to responding positively when your partner makes a bid for connection.

One newlywed shared a great example. He was laughing out loud at a Calvin and Hobbes comic when his wife sat down beside him and asked what was so funny. They ended up laughing together and sharing a moment of connection. In the workshop, she admitted she might not have “entered his space” if she hadn’t learned about turning toward.

It’s small moments like these that build friendship, strengthen connection, and create lasting positivity in a marriage.

If you’re interested in learning about this workshop, reach out to me by sending an email to bbroodo@jfsdallas.org. We host this class in-person or virtually, with groups, congregations, and even friend-groups of your married peers.