Marriage Counseling Worksheets Bundle PDF Templates - TherapyByPro - Free Printable

This worksheet is about improving relationships by practicing gratitude — saying “thank you” and showing appreciation in ways that matter to your partner.

Let’s go step by step through each tip and fill out the answers based on common relationship advice. Remember, there’s no single right answer — it depends on your own relationship! But I’ll give you thoughtful, realistic examples that most people can relate to.

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TIP 1: It is important to know what each of you can do to show appreciation in the relationship.

*What are 3 ways your partner wants to be shown gratitude?*
(Think: What makes them feel loved or appreciated?)

1. Hearing verbal thanks like “I really appreciate you doing the dishes.”
2. Getting a small surprise note or text saying “You’re amazing!”
3. Receiving a hug or physical touch after they’ve done something kind.

*What are 3 ways you want to be shown gratitude from your partner?*
(Think: What makes YOU feel valued?)

1. When they say “Thank you for cooking dinner — it meant a lot.”
2. When they help me without being asked (like taking out the trash).
3. When they listen carefully when I’m having a hard day.

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TIP 2: Everyone has a different perspective of how gratitude is shown. Sometimes, one partner can be showing gratitude in a way that is not recognized or appreciated by the other partner.

*What are 3 ways your partner does NOT want to be shown gratitude?*
(Think: What might feel fake, annoying, or meaningless to them?)

1. Being thanked publicly in front of friends if they’re shy.
2. Getting big gifts when they prefer simple words.
3. Having their efforts ignored even after you say thanks (e.g., not noticing they cleaned the whole house).

*What are 3 ways you do NOT want to be shown gratitude from your partner?*
(Think: What feels insincere or uncomfortable to you?)

1. Over-the-top compliments that don’t feel real.
2. Thanks given only when they want something from me.
3. Being thanked with sarcasm or jokes instead of sincerity.

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TIP 3: It is common for partners to get wrapped up in life. They may miss the good things that they do for one another. Knowing when to show appreciation toward one another is an important way to improve gratitude in the relationship.

*What are 3 instances when your partner should be shown gratitude?*
(Think: Times they went above and beyond.)

1. After they stayed up late helping me finish a project.
2. When they remembered my favorite snack and brought it home.
3. If they took care of chores while I was sick or stressed.

*What are 3 instances when you should be shown gratitude?*
(Think: Times YOU did something special for them.)

1. When I made their favorite meal after a long day.
2. If I listened to them vent without trying to fix everything.
3. When I planned a date night just because I knew they needed fun.

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*What are 3 instances when your partner wants to be shown gratitude?*
(Think: Moments they secretly hope you notice.)

1. After they fixed something broken around the house.
2. When they supported me during a tough conversation with family.
3. If they woke up early to make coffee before work.

*What are 3 instances when you want to be shown gratitude?*
(Think: Things you do that often go unnoticed.)

1. When I organize our schedule so we both have time to relax.
2. If I remember little things they mentioned weeks ago.
3. When I stay calm during arguments instead of yelling.

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Final Answer:

Here’s a completed version of the worksheet using realistic, relatable examples:

TIP 1
- Partner wants gratitude via: 1) Verbal thanks, 2) Surprise notes/texts, 3) Hugs/physical touch
- You want gratitude via: 1) Saying “thank you” specifically, 2) Helping unprompted, 3) Listening deeply

TIP 2
- Partner doesn’t want: 1) Public praise if shy, 2) Big gifts over words, 3) Ignored effort after thanks
- You don’t want: 1) Fake over-compliments, 2) Thanks only when they need favors, 3) Sarcastic thanks

TIP 3
- Show partner gratitude when: 1) They helped late at night, 2) Bought your favorite snack, 3) Did chores while you were sick
- You deserve gratitude when: 1) Made their favorite meal, 2) Listened without fixing, 3) Planned a date night
- Partner wants gratitude when: 1) Fixed something, 2) Supported you emotionally, 3) Made morning coffee
- You want gratitude when: 1) Organized schedules, 2) Remembered small details, 3) Stayed calm in conflict

These answers reflect healthy communication and mutual respect — key parts of any strong relationship!