Its all too common a story. Two people meet and spark a fire that becomes a blazing fire of passion. It’s not long until they get engaged, and they envision a life forever together.
However, as the years go by, they may have children together that take up most of their time. Perhaps they have busy jobs that keep them apart for many hours a week. Or maybe they’re just plain tired of each other. Whatever the cause, they lose the romance and passion in their relationship that was once a roaring flame.
As a couple, it can be difficult to know where to turn when this happens. If this sounds like you, then you’re not alone. Take a look at some of the best ways to breathe life back into your marriage.
Connect Physically
You may not be sure how to get back to where you were in the beginning, and that’s okay. The first step is a slow and gentle attempt at baby steps. It’s unrealistic to expect to go from being estranged to dancing a fiery tango overnight.
It takes patience and small concerted efforts. One of the best ways to start is physical contact. Something as simple as putting your hand on your partner’s shoulder, giving them a hug before they leave the house can make enormous progress. Gradually, try to increase physical affection. Ultimately, without physical intimacy, you’re not a romantic couple at all, but roommates. The importance of physical touch cannot be stressed enough.
Never Stop Learning About Each Other
One of the reasons you first fell in love with each other was because you were engaged in learning everything about the other person. As the years go by, it’s easy to fall under the illusion that we know everything about them. However, true romantics know that their partner will always be a mystery. It’s never too late to keep learning who they are.
Ask questions every day. Find out how they feel and what they’re thinking. Maybe she has looked at an array of cushion cut engagement rings and would like to be gifted one? Why not rekindle the spark of your relationship and get her one? Be curious, and they’ll start to mirror the same energy. Know this, efforts are always reciprocated!
Diffuse Conflicts Before They Escalate
One of the most telltale signs of a successful relationship is people who know how to shut down conflict when it starts to arise. Rather than allowing yourself to get flustered or wrapped up in a petty argument, catch yourself.
Be the bigger person and make an attempt to shut it down. Make your partner smile, or deflect your anger in some way that works for your relationship. Diffusing your arguments doesn’t mean avoiding the issue; it means softening it by avoiding getting so angry.
Remember, even relationships that you feel may be hopeless may be more hopeful than you realize. Even passionless relationships can be restored as long as both people want to find their passion again.
