Creating and maintaining a healthy relationship can be challenging. With multiple stressors, jobs, maybe a few kids running around, your relationship with your partner might take a backseat. While this can be common, it is not something that we want for any relationship. Here are five habits that can help you maintain a healthy relationship with your partner. 

Communicate The Good And The Bad

Sharing something good in your life with your partner is easy! We encourage you to share good things, as it can help bring you both closer together. However, sharing the bad things with your partner can be a little tougher. It for sure is not as fun, and can make for some difficult conversations. Once you get in the habit of feeling comfortable to share the bad things with your partner, and getting through those harder conversations, you will feel so much stronger as a couple. If you are having trouble with this, and your hard conversations turn into arguments, read my tips for a healthy argument above.

Embrace Hello and Goodbye

When leaving your partner, even if it is for just a short time, say goodbye with a hug, kiss, or high five, all three, or just one. Whatever fits and feels right for your relationship. Do the same thing when you are reuniting with your partner. Making this a habit in your relationship can really help you both to look forward to these acts of affection (no matter how big or how small) each day. 

Discuss How Your Day Was

Something as simple as asking your partner “how was your day” can go a long way. At the end of each day, with no distractions, sit down and discuss your day with your partner. Give them your undivided attention, ask questions, and show them you are listening to what they are saying. You can schedule out when this conversation happens (in bed before you go to sleep, over dinner, etc.) or you can just make a point to have this conversation some time before you go to sleep each night. Even if this conversation only lasts ten to fifteen minutes, it really can bond you both and bring you closer together. It also can give you something to enjoy at the end of each day. 

Share A Hobby

You do not have to enjoy everything your partner does, and you don’t have to have EVERYTHING in common with each other either. However, try sharing a hobby or two together. This can be watching a show together once or twice a week, working in the yard together, or walking or riding bikes together, whatever works for you both and your relationship. Try doing something that you both enjoy together as often as possible, or at least once a week. 

Incorporate A Date Night Once A Month

It can be so hard to take the time out of your busy schedule to plan a date night. However, it does not have to be anything fancy or over the top. You can do dinner and a movie, or if you can’t leave the house, plan to order take-out and watch a movie together. Something so simple and easy can really go a long way in your relationship. If you can do this more often than once a month, then definitely do it! Once a month is a good goal to shoot for, and if you can have a date night more than that, that’s even better! 

Life can really get in the way sometimes, but investing in your relationship will always be worth it! If you are having trouble, and need help in your relationship, schedule an appointment with me here