Couples tend to think they cannot find the time to go on dates with their partner. When we fall into the routine of everyday living, we tend to go through the motions of the week without stopping to spend time with one another. This can build resentment, create distance, and ultimately long-term hurt between two parties.
One of the misconceptions of going on dates is that, ‘dates are expensive.’ While those types of outings are fun, they are not sustainable for a relationship. I am here to challenge you get creative and find smaller, economical activities that you and your partner can enjoy together.
One of the keys to maintaining a healthy relationship is by staying friends. This may sound obvious, but a lot of times couples forget to laugh with each other. Maintaining your friendship with your partner is vital. This means doing small things that bring you both joy.
Here are 20 easy ways to feel more connected with your partner: :
Take a drive to see the holiday lights in your neighborhood.
Organize a scavenger hunt in your home for your partner.
Paint portraits of each other.
Write love letters to each other and send them through the mail.
Leave little notes for each other around the house (or hide them in each other’s pockets, purse, or work bag).
Pretend you are meeting each other for the first time.
Dress like you did when you were in middle school and take photos together.
Without sharing, each person picks something random from the pantry. You and your partner have to make a dish with both of the ingredients you have chosen.
Recreate your first date.
Get your favorite desserts and have a movie night.
Build a fort in the living room.
Spend time outside talking about your favorite childhood memories.
Plan a special day date for the other person.
Take your partner to their favorite shop.
Enjoy your morning coffee/tea together while you listen to your favorite tunes.
Visit a coffee shop you have not been to.
Follow an online video tutorial of a new hobby you can both try.
Have a tickle war.
Speak in a foreign accent during dinner.
Slow dance together.
Natalie Frazier, LMFT
Natalie's work is primarily focused on Couples and Individual Adults. She is experienced in grief and loss counseling, traumas (sexual and life-threatening), marital relations (including communication skills and infidelity), and emotion regulation (such as anger management and depression). She seeks to be an ally to all communities.
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