It’s true — relationships are an art, not a science. They can be difficult to navigate, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some universal truths that can help strengthen your bond with your partner. If you want to be even happier in your relationship (and who doesn’t?), here are a few easy tips you can try:
- Carve out time to go out together at least once a week. Don’t you dare just settle in for another night of Netflix and chill. Get off the couch, get out there, and make new memories with your favorite guy.
- Do something nice for him “just because.” Is the last time you cooked him dinner on Valentine’s Day? It shouldn’t be. You don’t need an excuse to give him a special surprise like dinner, a massage, or a small gift. If he’s worth hanging on to, he’ll return the favor.
- Tell him outright what you want instead of making him guess. Instead of crossing your fingers that he picks up on all of your signals, just tell him what you want and what you need. Sure, it’s nice when he can read your mind, but it’s even nicer to be happy and satisfied.
- Make sure that you have “couple friends” who you can double date with. It helps to mix up the conversation and break up your usual date-night routine. Plus, it’s fun to hang out in a crowd.
- Don’t ditch your own individual friends. Hold on tight to your own friends, even if it means time off as a couple. There are some things that are just way more fun to do with your friends than with a boyfriend. Plus, you’ll be even more excited to see your partner after time apart.
- When you first see him after being apart, make out for a full minute. It doesn’t matter if its been an hour, a day, or a week. It’ll add a touch of passion to your relationship that will infuse into everything else you do together.
- Work out together. Whether its a game of tennis, kicking around a soccer ball, or a full-on gym routine, getting active together will get your endorphins pumping. And yes, we’re thinking what you’re thinking – that kind of physical counts, too!
- Get more sleep. If you’re living together, force each other to go to sleep at a reasonable hour. You’d be surprised at the effects that sleep can have on your mood.
- Turn off your phones. A recent study showed that even if you don’t look at your phone, simply having it out on the table during a meal stunts conversation. Show your partner the respect they deserve and give the your full attention.
- Say “I love you” much more than you currently do. It’s always nice to say it, and to hear it. It’ll make you realize that the petty arguments don’t matter and will allow you to be grateful for what you share together.
