Romance can take a backseat when everyday life gets in the way, but investing in your relationship is a surefire way to make the daily grind a more enjoyable experience.
Try these six tricks and transform yourselves from the odd couple to the happy couple once again.
Pay attention
Every time you hear your other half mention a book or a film they like the sound of or an item they admire, make a note of it. Then, when you have the time and money, you have a choice of thoughtful things to surprise them with.
Make time for each other
Whether it’s a weekly date night or a grown-ups dinner at home when the kids are gone to bed, making time to really listen to each other and shoot the breeze is vital in any relationship. Visit a record store you used to love as a teenager or stroll past the place where you met for extra points.
Show your appreciation
If your partner fixes the shower door or rids your computer of a virus, say thank you. If your other half cooks an amazing meal, tell them how much you enjoyed it. They don’t owe you these things, they do them because they love you.
Make yourself happy
Relying on somebody else to create your happiness is a recipe for misery. Make yourself happy first, then put some thought and effort into what will make your partner happy. You’ll find they soon start to do the same for you.
Say ‘I love you’
Studies show more than half of people in two-year relationships say I love you every day. For people in 10 year relationships, this figure drops to 33 per cent. Start saying it loud and often, in the morning and in the evening, in text messages and emails and soon it’ll become second nature again.
Make contact
Small touches are as (if not more) important as dramatic movie kisses. Hold hands on the way to the shops, put your hand on their leg as you watch TV. Hugging releases the hormone oxytocin, which lowers the heart rate and reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
