What do Frankenstein and your marriage have in common? They both need a spark to stay alive. Frank got his from a bolt of lightning. As for your union, there are much safer ways to rekindle the passion and keep your heart light glowing. Marriage is the epitome of a working relationship. If you take it for granted, it will often wither away. Don’t let that happen to the person you declared was your true love. Want to put that spark back in your marriage? Here’s how:
Spark Suggestion #1: Make The Time
We all have busy lives. Work keeps us working. The kids need constant attention, and in the spare moments of free time on the weekend, the rain gutters need cleaning. Yes, you’re tired. Totally get that. However, that doesn’t mean you should treat your spouse as a “ship passing in the night.” One couple whose marriage lasted over 60 years took vacations without the kids. They made their time together a priority. Bottom line: if you don’t schedule the time, it won’t happen.
Spark Suggestion #2: Date Your Mate
Remember dating? It could have been a lifetime ago but there were things you did back then to score some points. You got dressed up for a date. You flirted. You sent love letters. You went the extra mile to plan something special. When was the last time you did any of that with your significant other? If you answer is, “I don’t remember,” then it is high time you go back to the beginning and date your mate like you mean it!
Spark Suggestion #3: Surprise
We all know the important milestones in a relationship that has to be recognized: anniversaries, birthdays and Valentine’s Day. Get those wrong, and you’ll be in the doghouse for quite some time. However, if you want to fire up that spark, why not surprise your spouse in between those times. Sending flowers to a workplace “just because” is awesome. That works for both men and women. Tickets to a concert or play that your spouse has been itching to see is another great surprise. Heck, coming home to a meal fully cooked and the kids shipped off to grandma’s for the night is probably the best surprise of all!
Spark Suggestion #4: Show Your Affection
You’re never too old to hold hands with the person you love. In fact, there should be a law about that! We all get into the habit of kissing our spouse as we go off to face the world. What about giving them a peck on the cheek when they pass the popcorn during your next viewing of Homeland? What about a kiss anytime you pass in the hallway? Affection is fun and can certainly lead to more fun. It’s also a great model for your kids.
Spark Suggestion #5: Do New Things Together
If you haven’t already, you and your partner should have a bucket list. The goal should be to knock off at least five of those items every year. The more new things you do as a couple, the more you’ll have to talk about. That’s just the tip of the sharing iceberg. How do you keep the spark alive in your relationship?
