Couples counseling isn’t just for fixing existing problems. In fact, addressing potential issues before they start is one key to a happy marriage. Relationship therapy can help you avoid potential problems before they ever occur, and also help you and your partner develop the five habits of happy couples.
If you take some time to think about the happiest, most successful couples you know, chances are they have several things in common. Developing healthy habits and agreements around putting your relationship first will go a long way to promoting the security and longevity of your relationship. Here are five ways to help keep your relationship happy:
- Find common interests. Being able to do something you both enjoy is important. You can’t force your partner to like something he doesn’t, but why not spend time doing something you both enjoy? Watch the stress drop away and smiles show up.
- Plan date nights regularly. Putting all other distractions aside, and paying undivided attention to your mate, is an essential component of intimacy. I highly recommend a weekly date night, if at all possible.
- Break your routines. We all have our daily regime, but being spontaneous puts the spark back into every-day life. A little novelty and unpredictability will provide a sense of romance, wonder, and possibility.
- Put away your phones. When you’re spending time together, put away the technology. Show up for your partner and let her know that she matters more. The rest of the world can wait.
- Don’t nag. Focus on what your partner is doing right rather than what he is doing wrong. Pick your battles, and realize that some of the little things that annoy you don’t really matter that much.
Even though you have busy schedules and it’s hard to devote a huge amount of time to each other, making your relationship a priority will protect your relationship over time. So, be on the lookout for ways to spend time with your partner that are fun, that let you focus your attention on something that’s new and enjoyable, and that encourage interaction with one another.
Practice these five habits of happy couples, and watch how the happiness in your relationship grows. But if you’re feeling stuck in an unhappy rut in your relationship, give me a call and we’ll talk over how to get you back to happy! Call me at (719) 544-2016 and I will help you.