REIGNITING THE SPARK IN YOUR LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIP
Did you know that 70% of romantic relationships fail in the first year? Why is it that relationships are struggling to last? In a world where changes are lightning fast, the longevity of a relationship is becoming an achievement in itself. Many couples fall in love head over heels, but the actual struggle comes in maintaining that initial spark. As the rush of a new relationship fades, many find it hard to stay and reignite it.
Reigniting the Spark :
Sparks fade, that's the nature of them. But you can always choose to strike the stones again and keep tending to the fire regularly to keep it going. How you can do it in a relationship? Let's explore 5 basic yet most effective ways to reignite that spark.
1) Open Communication: A lot of anger and resentment that comes after a few years into the relationship is mostly accumulated over time. Establishing open and honest communication is not a one-time task but an ongoing commitment. Where most couples fail is when they try to keep the peace at the cost of not addressing issues that are bothering them. While you might let it go this time, unresolved matters pile up and create a wedge between partners.
Whether your needs aren't met or if they are doing something wrong or if you feel them withdrawing, talk about it. Regularly check in with your partner about your feelings, needs, and desires. Create a safe space for discussions so that both of you can express freely and establish a deeper understanding of each other.
2) Quality Time: If you are too busy to spend quality time with your partner, that's when you have to make it a priority. It is understandable that today's hustle is time-consuming and draining. That is exactly the reason why you need to stay connected with your partner so that both of you don't feel lonely on the journey.
Quality time is not just about going on dates, it could be anything from half an hour of undistracted time with your partner before bed to a weekend getaway. Even a simple walk around the neighbourhood, a mindful meal together or a grocery run could contribute to rebuilding and strengthening your emotional bonds with the person.
3) Rediscovering Intimacy: There are many kinds of intimacy in a relationship - physical, emotional, intellectual, experiential and spiritual. Have an honest discussion about what makes either of you feel intimate with your partner. Remember that as you grow as a person, this change too. So, it's important to regularly revisit your intimacy needs.
Keep exploring new ways to connect intimately, whether through shared experiences, and increased affection. Open and honest communication about desires and boundaries is key in this process.
4) Shared Goals and Adventures: Shared goals and adventures add excitement to the relationship by giving us something to look forward to and allowing us to show up as a team. This reinforces the sense of partnership, builds trust and creates loving memories.
It could be anything from fitness to financial goals or a theme park visit to a long vacation. It could also be a common hobby or a sport that you both enjoy. Making time for things like this is key to keeping the spark going.
5) Prioritize Self-Care: It's easy to lose oneself in a long-term relationship. Losing a lot of who you are for a partner, and isolating from friends and family in the process is one of the major factors that break a long-term relationship. Because as you put your all on one person, even a small slip-up can end up breaking your trust and leaving you disappointed.
Individual well-being is the foundation upon which a healthy partnership is built. When each partner prioritises self-care, it positively impacts the relationship. Personal growth contributes to a healthier dynamic, making it easier to appreciate and support each other.
Conclusion
In the dance of long-term relationships, reigniting the spark takes intentional effort and a commitment to growth. But the key is to remember that it's an ongoing journey and not a destination that requires dedication from both partners. As you embark on this journey, may your relationship flourish with renewed passion and connection.
Author: Nivetha Kannan
Nivetha writes blogs on mental health and wellbeing topics for Silver Oak Health. She is a professional content writer and is passionate about the field of psychology & personal development. She writes impactful content that brings positive changes in people. Her mantra for life is to ‘be curious, and not judgemental’.