Families For Life | 10 ways to get to know your partner (again)

Most of us probably do not recall what we had for lunch last Tuesday, so what are the chances we remember what it was really like when we dated and our romantic honeymoon period after getting married?

From having children to spending more time at work than at home together and the many other distractions between then and now, here are some ways you can get back on track in your relationship and strengthen your bond with your partner!

1. Go on a first date again

Remember the butterflies before your first kiss after the meal both of you didn’t finish at the restaurant you went to? Recreate that special first date where nothing but the two of you mattered or at least the emotions you felt on that day, without the distractions of life or its frills. It’ll be like falling in love all over again!

2. Limit screen time

Forget Facebook or Instagram and spend more face-to-face time with your partner. Dedicate specific times to disconnect from digital devices and focus solely on each other. This undivided attention can enhance intimacy and communication and reminisce the times you spent with each other before social media was a thing.

3. Book a romantic holiday just for the two of you

It’s not selfish to leave the kids with their grandparents for a romantic getaway. In fact, strengthening your love for each other also strengthens the loving bond between parents and their children as well. Remember, it doesn’t have to be far away, just the two of you!

4. Nothing says it like sweet nothings

Do you remember the last time you told your partner or texted them “I love you”? Leave a romantic note for your partner to find, or just surprise them with loving compliments. It takes almost nothing to make a difference, and that could mean everything!

5. Make conversations fun again!

If your conversations with your partner are now mostly about bills, work, or parenting, it’s time to make them fun again. Here’s a tip: talk like friends! Share your thoughts about the latest Netflix series, get excited about your next holiday together or even revisit your dreams and goals you had when you were younger.

6. Experience something for the first time

Live like you’re young again. Engage in novel activities that excite you, such as travelling to new destinations or indulging in weekend activities together. Shared adventures can reignite the spark in your relationship, especially if both of you haven’t tried it before!

7. Get physical

A little PDA is nothing to be shy about. Hold your partner’s hand when you and your partner are out, as you used to. Express your love to your partner through gentle and affectionate gestures. Regular physical touch also relieves stress and releases oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and feelings of closeness!

8. Live, laugh, love

Laughter is the best medicine. Give yourselves a healthy dose of it by laughing with each other. Crack a joke or ten, and engage with each other daily over the fun stuff. Call each other hilarious pet names and avoid too much routine and monotony. Each of you is exciting in your own way, so live, laugh and love together.

9. Take time apart

As the saying goes, ‘Absence makes the heart grow fonder”. As much as you and your partner love doing things with each other, having a life outside your relationship by going out with your friends or doing something yourself is essential. Doing things apart helps you know yourselves more and, in turn, learn more about each other too!

10. A little help goes a long way

Everyone needs a little help now and then when it comes to relationships. From our Mini Marriage PREP Tips to enriching programmes you can sign up for as a couple, our last and most important tip is never to hesitate to seek support when you need it.