Let\u2019s face it, being in a long-term relationship requires work. As time passes, you learn more about your partner’s fears, insecurities, and bad habits and the “spark” that was once so strong slowly dissipates. Of course, that doesn’t mean you love your partner any less than you did in the honeymoon stage. It’s just the result of falling into a comfortable place.<\/p>\n
Looking for some ways to rekindle that romance? Here are four expert-approved tips.<\/p>\n
Break away from your routine<\/strong> Put your partner\u2019s needs first<\/strong> Practice emotional intimacy<\/strong>
\nWhen you\u2019ve been with someone for a while, it\u2019s easy to get comfortable. Comfort and predictability can eventually lead to boredom, so Marni Feuerman<\/a>, a specialist in couples\u2019 therapy, recommends shaking things up a little bit. \u201cIf Saturdays have always been reserved for chores, plan an adventure. Try something new together that you may have been talking about and never got around to.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nDr. Amy Muise<\/a>, a sexuality and relationship researcher, says both parties should be willing to make sacrifices to please their partner. Linking your happiness to your partner\u2019s will, in turn, bring you joy too.<\/p>\n
\nIf you\u2019re not getting something you need or vice versa, communication is the name of the game. Psychologist John M. Gottman, author of The Science of Trust: Emotional Attunement for Couples<\/em>, preaches practicing emotional attunement<\/a>, a couple’s ability to understand and respect each other’s inner world. Instead of asking questions that require only a “yes” or “no” answer, keep them open-ended. By reframing a question or complaint in a way that’s positive, you avoid hurting your partner. Dr. Gottman says, \u201cThis requires a mental transformation from what’s wrong with one\u2019s partner to what one\u2019s partner can do that would work. The speaker is really saying, \u2018Here\u2019s what I feel, and what I need from you.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n