The number one priority in any relationship is open and effective communication.  It is the glue of any successful long-term partnership.

If you can’t communicate openly and honestly, it may eventually lead to the end of your relationship as a couple. Parents have to work especially hard at this due to their own busy schedules and also managing the children with their daily routine and activities.

You need to nurture your relationship first. It is OK to let the kids take a back seat once in a while. Without the fiery love that you both shared in the earlier stages of your romance, there wouldn’t be any little ones running around.

Many people forget that, and over time, relationships become a platonic environment. This is not what you signed up for. Be aware of how to keep things fresh between you and your partner all year long!

10 Top Tips to Keep Your Love Strong:

Talk openly and share your feelings regularly

This can’t be emphasized enough and includes all discussions. Share what is going on in both of your lives outside your home. Understand and be interested in what each other does in your career, your personal hobbies or passions. If something is bothering you, do not dismiss having a conversation about it.

Include your partner in all parts of your life. The reason it is called a partnership is that you are supposed to share things. Give each other your full attention when one of you is talking. Listen to each other and really hear what they are saying.

Money is a big relationship stress!

Sadly, money is one of the top reasons for the rise in divorce statistics. Set a budget that is adhered to and respected between you both as a couple. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on the kids. They would much rather have parents who are happy together, than owning the latest gadget that goes out of date the following year.

They also don’t need to be involved in numerous expensive weekly activities. Running yourself ragged to get the kids to all of these outings takes a big toll on your time and energy. You have nothing left to give your partner at the end of every day. One or two sports or activities per year are enough. This will also keep your child from dealing with exhaustion.

It is also a wonderful idea to plan regular family sports. This is a great way to stay close and connected, while having fun at the same time! It could be a family outing consisting of a hike, tennis, executive par 3 golf or pitch and putt.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Schedule weekly date nights!

You need to make time for each other regularly, especially during stressful times of the year. You should never be too busy for one another. If you fall apart, so does your family. Hire a sitter and go out for dinner.

If finances are an issue, choose inexpensive dating options. Go for a romantic walk or go for a coffee together. Alternatively, exchange child-minding time with a neighbour or relative who also has children. Don’t ever forget to love each other and show your partner how you feel.

Make an effort to look good for yourself and your partner.

A little sex appeal is important! Be the person you were when you first met each other. They fell in love with you for a reason, so always remember that and keep the attraction alive.

It only takes a few minutes to put in a little personal effort. This will add miles to your relationship. It shows you care. Spend half an hour every day before dinner to chat about your day. Unwind over a glass of wine or cup of tea. Do this without any distractions.

Sex and intimacy are very big priorities in a relationship!

Sex doesn’t have to consist of an hour of foreplay. A quick visit behind a locked door when the kids are out with friends or while they are watching their favorite TV show keeps you close as a couple. Regular sex can make so many other family issues seem less problematic. Making love is very therapeutic!

Hold hands when you are out for dinner or walking down the street. Kiss each other hello and goodbye every day. Compliment your partner and notice subtle changes when they make an effort to look sexy for you. Anytime you can be romantic with each other will help you get through many other life pressures.

Photo by Gustavo Fring

Thanksgiving, Christmas & other holidays bring family stresses that are enhanced during those times of the year.

As a couple, you need to be very aware of this. It is important to discuss where you will be spending the holidays. Figure out a system that works for your own family and also for your in-laws. There will need to be a lot of compromising on this subject due to the expectations some family members have around these festive occasions.

You need to be on the same page as your partner and supportive of each other with any family drama that occurs. Having each other’s back is very important throughout your years together as a couple.

Be communicative & selective with your social activities.

Trying to do it all puts a lot of tension on you as a couple. You don’t have to do everything! Annual work events/parties should be attended by both of you together. You might want to compromise by doing certain things in alternate years. It is very meaningful and appreciated when you support your partner’s career.

Ensure you schedule some time at least once a week to get out of the house together. Take a break from the everyday routine at home. Have some fun as a couple! Laughter is also important in a relationship.

The little things count.

Leave your partner a loving “post-it note.” Send sweet text messages every so often throughout the day. These are beautiful ways to show you are thinking about them throughout the hectic days. Words are very powerful. Communicating your feelings in these simple ways can keep your love alive for many years to come!

Help each other with tasks around the house. Make it a team effort. It isn’t one person’s job to maintain the household chores. Contribute without having to be asked.

Be kind to one another.

Your partner is your number one priority and should be treated as such. You fell in love for a reason, and that should always be cherished. Take time to love one another and have those special romantic moments.

By being aware and continually communicating with a reciprocated respect, it is possible to create ongoing love-filled memories with your partner. If you want to sustain longevity in your relationship, always stay tuned in to any changes taking place. Never stray too far off course by becoming complacent and taking things for granted.

A partnership isn’t a lot of work when you work together as a team and recognize the need for transparency. Honest communication is the key to relationship health and maintenance.

Sybersue xo

Private Dating Relationship Coaching With Sybersue – Please contact me at [email protected] and message me there to set up a video or audio appointment within 24 hours. Thank you!

Susan McCord @ Dear Sybersue YouTube – Dear Sybersue Facebook

Dear Sybersue Blogs & Advice Column – Dear Sybersue Instagram

Related