Almost every relationship begins in the same way – you never argue, you love all of the exact same things, and you can’t keep your hands off each other.
Then gradually things change. You start to take each other for granted. You don’t want to have s3x as frequently, you crave personal space, and you come to the realization that not everything is perfect. Your honeymoon phase has come to end. So how can you keep the spark alive?
Below are 6 best things you can do to keep that spark alive in your long term relationship.
1. Keep Talking
The easiest way to disconnect from your partner is to stop talking to each other. This happens all the time in long-term relationships. Genuine conversations about things outside of bills, kids, and life tasks are a must for keeping the romance spark alive. When you have these conversations, you get to learn more about each other which means that you can connect and grow together rather than apart.
2. Be adventurous
Another good way to keep your spark alive is to try out something new and adventurous together. Whether you are traveling to a new destination or exploring a new hobby, it is something that you can both look forward to.
3. Parents…Adult Only Hours
Kids shouldn’t be the center of your marriage. You need to make sure you have activities, vacations, and conversations that don’t revolve around your children. When you and your partner are able to connect with each other that involves just the two of you, you are reminded of why you got together and had a kid in the first place.
4. Get Intimate
Intimacy is an important aspect of long-term relationships and often highlights how you and your partner’s relationship is going. Make sure you have conversations about intimacy that allow you and your partner to express your desires. Don’t be afraid to switch things up by trying new things and being adventurous.
5. Be affectionate and accept affection
Hold hands, have a cuddle on the sofa or simply look at each other affectionately. Remember most of the communication that happens between people about their relationship happens at a non-verbal level.
6. Gratitude and Appreciation
Don’t take your partner for granted. Nobody likes to feel unrecognized or unappreciated – something that happens often and easily in long-term relationships. Remember to thank your partner for everything they do, just like you did when you first got together. Taking the time to see all that they do for you is a sure way to deepen your connection to one another. (Make sure to ask for the same in return!)
