Hotline - 089 80 99 027 00
Strengthening the relationship
A partnership is a dynamic structure. And while in most cases the butterflies in the stomach still flutter wildly at first, everyday life gradually begins – and for many couples, the question also arises: How can we keep our partnership alive, maintain it, and still enjoy each other in the daily routine? We reveal what you can focus on to strengthen your relationship.
Laughing is the best medicine
A positive mindset helps to maintain the joy of togetherness even in difficult situations. Shared laughter and enjoying humorous moments ensure relaxation, relieve pressure, and thus help to defuse conflicts. Indulge in this shared fun – it will bring you closer together.
Allow yourself your own space
Just because you are a couple doesn't mean you have to be together 24/7. It helps if each has their own retreat—either at home or in the form of a hobby. For example, belonging to a sports club without your partner, a regulars' table, or something similar. Personal experiences bring new impulses into the relationship and thus enliven it. By the way: Give each other the opportunity to miss one another. Longing makes you desire each other.
Maintain physical closeness
A relationship consists of three pillars: emotional closeness, intellectual exchange, and sexuality. How important sex itself is to you is something you decide individually in your partnership. Especially in phases of life where libido takes a back seat, other things can take precedence. The good news: a relationship can exist without sex. However, you should still pay attention to physical closeness, caresses, and hugs. This way, you maintain the connection with each other and build trust.
Joint projects make you a team
In joint projects, one pursues a common goal. And that, in turn, stabilizes the partnership from within. They stand side by side for something and fight to achieve their set goal. How wonderful is it, for example, to design the garden or balcony together, restore a piece of furniture, or organize an event? Even a crisis can be a joint project from which one emerges together - and above all strengthened.
Still staying a couple despite being parents
When children come, a relationship changes. Suddenly, the focus is on the little ones, instead of on you as a couple. To avoid getting lost (only) in parenthood, it helps to address each other by your first names instead of "Mom" and "Dad." Try to set up date nights by hiring a babysitter or having the grandparents help out. A movie night out with a restaurant visit, for example, can bring you both closer together again. Also nice: Just make plans with friends who don’t have children. This brings up different topics of conversation.
And what if it really hits the fan?
Bring your mutual appreciation into play. Especially when it is most difficult – for example, during an argument. Stay fair and discuss with each other. Put accusations in the background, instead formulate in the "I" form and try to steer towards a solution instead of dwelling on the problem. Turn the argument into an opportunity for improvement.
Tips for Communication in Crises
- When articulating needs, express them in the "I" form instead of arguing with "you" accusations.
- Let your partner finish speaking, it shows respect.
- Preserve your own boundaries. If you feel something really rubs you the wrong way, clearly say "No.
- Offer a reasonable compromise.
- Dare to admit mistakes and apologize.
- If something positive catches your eye, don't hesitate to give praise and compliments. That shows appreciation.
- A small gift brings a smile to the face and warms the heart. It's not necessarily about material things. Above all, a creative idea as a small gesture of attention also shows appreciation for the other person.
- Show helpfulness by actively offering it. Phrases like "Can I assist you in any way?", "If I can help you, please be sure to let me know," or "What can I do for you?" work wonders.
Many couples have experienced this: A relationship needs care. It rarely works on its own. You have to actively take care of it and actually do it: love each other. Be there for each other. And enjoy having each other.
