Four weekly check-in formats that work

The best check-in is the one you’ll still be doing in week ten. Here are four formats, from tiny to roomy. Try one for a month, then switch if it doesn’t fit.

Four formats

1. The 5-minute voice note

Every Monday morning, each of you sends a voice note: last week, this week, one thing that might get in the way. Reply with a few words of encouragement. Ideal for busy weeks and different time zones.

2. The 15-minute call

Same day, same time, every week. Five minutes each, five minutes for anything else. Set a timer, it keeps things fair.

3. The walk-and-talk

Meet for a 45-minute walk once a week or every two weeks. Moving side by side makes honest conversations easier. Bring the three questions below.

4. The written check-in

A shared note or chat thread where you each post three bullet points every Friday. Great for people who think better in writing.

The three questions

Whatever the format, use the same three questions:

1. What did I do since last time?
2. What got in the way?
3. What will I do before next time? (Make it an if-then plan: “If it’s Tuesday after work, then I’ll…”)

Finish with one sentence of encouragement for your partner. It sounds cheesy. It works.

When it starts to feel stale

Change one thing: the day, the place or the format. Or add a monthly “bigger picture” check-in where you look back at the last four weeks. The printable weekly check-in sheet below has room for both.