14 Ideas That Will Keep The Romance Alive And Well In Your Relationship
By Mark Webb, The Relationship Specialist
“No road is long with good company.” ~ Turkish Proverb
1) Be Silly.
Robert Frost said “If we couldn’t laugh we would all go insane.” Relationships can be tough on a person but laughter makes everything better. I recommend that you bring playfulness and silliness into your relationship. If the humor has faded, then take the risk and bring it back.
2) Look Into Each Other’s Eyes As Much As Possible.
The eyes are the window to the soul and they are one of the best ways to truly connect with your partner. This may also be awkward at first if you have gotten away from this but this simple act can bring the magic back very quickly.
“A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” ~ Mignon McLaughlin
3) Create New Adventures Together.
Seek ways to break out of your normal routine and do something new; something different. You’d be surprised at what one day or one weekend together will do to renew your relationship.
4) Kiss Each Other Hello And Good-bye.
This should be a part of your relationship even if it has grown stale. The difference needs to be in the strength of your kiss. Kiss like you mean it. Say something thoughtful afterwards.
“Age does not protect you from love. But love, to some extent, protects you from age.” ~ Jeanna Moreau
5) Call Or Text Each Other During The Day.
I hear so many people voice sadness that their partner does not call or text them during the day. They say it gives them the feeling that their partner doesn’t care that much.
“Don’t try to be something to everyone. Be everything to someone.” ~ Anonymous
6) Sit Next To Each Other On The Couch Instead Of In Two Separate Chairs.
Your recliner may be extremely comfortable but unless there is room for both of you, I suggest you and your partner move to the couch or get a bigger recliner. Closeness builds closeness.
“Happily ever after is not a fairy tale — it’s a choice.” ~ Fawn Weaver
7) Rekindle Your Sex Life.
The honeymoon does not have to die. Strive to put the same enthusiasm that you had in the beginning back into your love life. Actually, strive to outdo the energy and passion that you used to have.
“You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” ~ Dr. Seuss
8) Seek To Serve Your Partner As Opposed To Being Served.
I’d like to modify a famous quote; ask not what your partner can do for you, ask what you can do for them. It is better to give than to receive. Giving keeps the positive flow of your love for each other flowing with a strong current.
9) Embrace Each Other And Hold Hands.
Touch is also an extremely powerful way to connect with your partner. Hold each other firmly and put a little squeeze into it.
“The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” ~ Audrey Hepburn
10) Don’t Forget The Basics Like Please and Thank You.
Some couples I work with have to be reminded of these simple truths. Never stop using your manners, even if you have had a bad day or your partner has hurt your feelings. This also includes “I Love You” and “I’m Sorry”. I don’t care that people believe that these words lose meaning if you say them all the time. All of these words mean so much, especially if you say them with sincerity.
11) Maintain A Constant Positive And Upbeat Attitude.
A positive attitude can brighten up any situation. If you want to experience the power of a great relationship then strive to always be positive and excited about each other and the life you live.
12) Give Encouragement.
Give words of affirmation such as “I am so glad that you are a part of life.” “You are the best thing to ever happen to me.” I’ve heard that it takes nine positive statements to make up for one critical one. So be careful what you speak and be sure to make things right if you have a lot of catching up to do.
13) Develop A Friendship With Your Partner.
Some people treat their friends better than they do their partner. Always prioritize your relationship with your partner.
“Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.” ~ Maya Angelou
14) Renew Your Commitment To Your Partner.
This is especially important if you and your partner have been through a particularly difficult period in your relationship. Make sure they know that your love is Forever!
“We are most alive when we’re in love.” ~ John Updike
Mark Webb is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice at South Georgia Psychiatric and Counseling Center in Valdosta. He is the author of How To Be A Great Partner and How To Argueproof Your Relationship. Read more of his articles www.TheRelationshipSpecialist.com