Does your nearest and dearest know you truly care? These easy steps will strengthen your connection, resulting in a more rewarding relationship.
What’s love got to do with it? Well, everything, of course! Of all the factors that predict positive outcomes in life, supportive relationships are one of the most important, affecting our physical health, our mental wellbeing, the happiness we experience in life and how long we live.
No matter how strong the foundation of a relationship is, nurturing is required from both parties to strengthen and maintain the partnership, so whether your relationships are thriving or just surviving, you can always take steps to improve them. Make an effort each day and the reward of deeper connection will show itself. Read on to discover six sure-fire ways to nurture your romantic relationship.
1. Be intentional with time
Don’t just hope that time to spend with your partner will somehow materialise, purposefully make it happen. Cook breakfast together every morning, schedule a monthly date night, meet for lunch once a week or exercise together in the weekends. Even half an hour of quality one-on-one time is valuable – just remember to make it uninterrupted if you can: book a babysitter, turn off your phones and enjoy each other’s company.
2. Don’t take your partner for granted
Do a stocktake of all the things they do for you and ensure you thank them for it. Make sure you show your appreciation, surprise them with a little note, buy them a little something you know they love, or prepare a nice meal for them. No act of kindness, however big or small, is ever wasted, and feeling valued can really strengthen your connection.
3. Give
Acts of service are a lovely way to show you care, and they make a big impression. Do you know what household or daily tasks your other half doesn’t like doing? Lighten the load and take over from them – empty the dishwasher, take the kids out so they can have some me-time, or ask if there’s anything you can do to make everyday life easier.
4. Provide emotional support
One of the best things about being on the same team is the support you get. Life is full of ups and downs and it’s important that your partner feels like you’re in their corner. When someone knows you’re there for them no matter what, it builds trust. Give compliments to your loved one; ask how they’re really doing and carefully listen to their answer; provide validation when they discuss something with you by listening and saying you understand, rather than jumping straight to what you think they could’ve done better. You want them to know they’re not alone on this journey called life.
5. Share
When you share your hopes, dreams and fears with your partner, you become much closer. Sometimes this requires being vulnerable, but it breaks down barriers and helps you connect authentically. Kind, constant and honest communication will help your relationship thrive.
6. Have fun
Life can be all too serious at times and start to weigh us down, so ensure you’re having fun and sharing a laugh or two. Discuss the things you love doing and places you’d like to visit, then plan to go and do or see them together.
