If you're looking for ways to bring the intimacy and fun back into your relationship, you're in luck.
There are simple and quick ways to show your partner that you care.
Don't become overwhelmed and try to implement all of these ideas at once.
Instead, try a few at a time or even just one every week.
You're sure to be rewarded with a more open relationship and easier communication.
Habits to Create Never blame somebody outright, even if it's pretty clear that they're wrong.
Instead, look for a solution together.
This can be a bit difficult, but if you take your partners feelings into consideration before you speak, it's possible to voice your concerns without placing blame.
If you're both comfortable with them, public displays of affection can really affirm a relationship.
While you're at it, be sure to tell your partner you love them at every opportunity.
If you're about to get into a fight, take a mental step back and ask yourself if it's really that important.
Is this issue really important enough to begin a fight that could result in yelling, name-calling, and permanently hurt feelings? Chances are, if you cool off for a moment, you'll realize it isn't.
Remember the early days of the relationship, and try to recapture those feelings of freshness and excitement.
Feelings like this are even more special when coupled with the closeness you now share.
You can do this in small ways.
In fact, small, considerate things, like making sure to buy their favorite brand of coffee, bond a relationship much more strongly than big, lavish gifts.
Tell your partner you appreciate them.
This could be appreciation for something they've done around the house, their taste in music, or their support as you take on something challenging.
Affirming that you notice is important.
Communication is Key If your partner is down, let them tell you about it.
No advice, no opinions, just listening.
During a fight, if you're ready for the argument to end, give your partner a hug and a kiss.
Do this without talking, then, calmly talk out the disagreement.
You'll be surprised how often this ends a fight! Look them in the eye.
It's annoying when strangers won't look you in the eye...
it's even worse when your partner won't! Do this while actually listening to what they have to say, not just acting as though you're listening.
Try to use "I" statements whenever you can.
"You always forget to take out the garbage" sound much worse than "I feel really taken for granted when you don't do the things you say you're going to.
" This same approach works when asking for a favor.
Instead of telling your partner to help you do yard work, say how much you'd appreciate the assistance.
Have Fun Together So many relationships experience tension when one or both partners feels as though they're bored.
Try new things together, whether they're adventurous or just fun and silly.
This will keep your relationship feeling fresh, as well as bond you together.