So, here you are, looking for ways to better your relationship. Whether you’re in one currently or want to know what to do once you’re in one, you’ve come to the right place.
Unlike what you see in the movies, balancing the daily grind of life and a relationship can really take a toll over time. Likewise, a conflict or two can be what sends you into a pattern of poor interactions rather than a blissful moment of making up. So, how do you do it? How do you balance your relationship, work, home life, children, and everything else when life itself is a lot to handle?
Let’s talk about 7 ways to strengthen your relationship.
7 Ways to Enhance Your Relationship
Put away your cell phone. A study by PewResearch.org found that roughly half of adults report their partner is distracted by their phone when they’re talking. To combat this, commit to putting your phones away during your conversations. Likewise, you can schedule time daily to check in with one another. Commit to no electronics during this time.
Create time for play. What activity do the two of you engage in that brings both of you laughter and joy? Scheduling a weekly, fun date night can enhance the connection within your relationship.
Take a break. Perhaps you’re stuck in a cycle of negative interactions. Now, more than ever, you may need some time to yourself. For example, you could schedule an evening to enjoy an activity that fills your cup.
Show gratitude. Once couples develop a pattern of negative interactions, it’s easy to stay there. Soon, it may seem like everything your partner does annoys you or leads to an argument. However, shifting your focus to intentional gratitude can turn things around in your relationship. Write down three things every day about your partner that you are grateful for.
Go to bed at the same time. Various studies show couples who go to bed at the same time have less conflict, more intimacy, and more conversation time.
Learn one another’s love language. An essential part of showing love in your relationship is by doing it in a way that speaks to your partner.
Be curious rather than assume. For example, if your partner responds a certain way, offer the benefit of the doubt and clarify what you heard to check for misunderstanding. Rather than reacting quickly to their response, take a moment to be curious. Are either of you stressed or having a bad day?
Where to Turn for Help with Your Relationship
For some couples, the cycle of poor interactions can be too much to overcome. If this sounds like a familiar story, you may want to consider seeking professional help.
Marriage and family therapists are equipped to help couples work through the dynamics of a relationship that divide them. Together, you can approach difficult topics, refine communication skills, and work to reconnect in more meaningful ways. Likewise, therapy can be a great way to look internally and discover why you may respond or react the way you do. For example, perhaps you tend to be more controlling when your fear of abandonment is high. Likewise, your partner may not realize the link between their strong reactions and their childhood. A therapist may be able to help you work on your relationship from many angles to help you both individually and as a couple.
Relationships will prove to be difficult at times. However, studies show couples in a committed relationship tend to be healthier, happier, and live longer. Finding a connection and building upon it may be one of the best choices you make in life. At Fort Worth Counseling and Intervention, we’re here to help in any way we can. We look forward to working with you.
Contact us today.
