It can be pretty easy to prioritize other things over nurturing your relationship. Work, kids, your social calendar, not to mention trying to keep up with your own self-care. Simple relationship tips for busy couples can go a long way.
One day, you may wake up and feel completely disconnected from your partner. You have been going through the motions, but miss feeling connected on a deeper level. As a Bethesda Couples Counselor, I know your relationship deserves more than that. So here are some relationship tips for busy couples in Bethesda.
So how do you create the energy, time, and effort needed to be more intentional and take care of the relationship? I see many couples as a Bethesda Counselor, so I know a few tried and true tips that are perfect for busy couples.
The Magic of a 20-Minute Conversation
Most people spend more time scrolling through their phones. So it’s really important to have this time set aside each day, simply to talk to your partner face to face. This is not the time to bring up conflicts. Instead, spend 20 minutes catching up on each other’s day. Communication builds connection. So I recommend setting an alarm on your phone for the same time, every day. For some couples, this may be before bed to share a recap of the day. For others, this could be over morning coffee before heading out for work. Either way, this is my top suggestion for feeling more connected.
Practice Gratitude and Appreciation
When long to-do lists and a hectic work schedule seem to take priority, it’s easy to feel unimportant in a relationship. It’s easy to lose sight of the other person when the relationship is on the back burner. This next tip requires a little bit of refocusing, yet very little time: Actively look for ways to let your partner know that they are important and valued. Seek out what the other person is doing right, instead of critiquing them at every turn. Share your appreciation for their efforts.
Create Rituals for Connection
If you can create a habit or ritual with your partner to show affection on a regular basis, this can go a long way in fostering a deeper connection. If you have more time, scheduling a weekly date night would be a great example. Or, if you are really short on time, try implementing the ‘6-second kiss’ every morning, or evening. The act of kissing releases neurotransmitters and hormones that create a love cocktail of emotions, and has been linked with many health benefits!
It may take some time to implement these tips in your relationship, and that’s ok. If you would like additional support, please contact our Bethesda Couples Counselors today.
