Love is in the air this time of year, and though no one is going to say no to dinner and a box of chocolates, perhaps you can use valentines day as an opportunity to improve your relationship wellness, which can only improve overall family wellness in the long run.
Firstly, are you giving your partner enough space? No one likes to be restricted to a small space all of the time, and spending a little bit of time apart from each other every now and then could make you appreciate the time you have together more (though you probably shouldn’t give your partner space on Valentine’s Day itself!)
When you’re taking that space, use it to develop interests in things that you might not pursue if the other person was around. Both of you will miss each other when you’re not there, round yourselves out and be satisfied as individuals, which is important for your personal and your relationship’s wellbeing, and you’ll have new things to talk about when you see each other.
Thirdly, there is a lot of give and take involved in a successful relationship, so if an occasion arises where there’s a disagreement, but it doesn’t cost you anything to let your partner have his or her way, there’s no harm in backing down. However, this needs to be the deal for both of you. You’re equal partners, and both have valid opinions.
Next, don’t forget that sex isn’t only fun, but an important part of your relationship where you connect on all levels. As your relationship continues, it can be harder to keep your sex life feeling fresh and exciting, but Valentines Day is a great time to renew your efforts and rekindle that flame.
Also, keep your partner on their toes by being spontaneous. Whisk them away for the weekend as a surprise, or tell him or her you’re going to have a chilled evening with a movie at home this Valentine’s Day but actually cook them an extravagant dinner or take them out for a night on the town.
Sixth on this list is to treat your partner’s friends and family well, because he or she respects their opinion of you, but also won’t listen to any negativity if you’re making the effort with them but they’re still not responding. If you want to be part of your partner’s world for a long time, you need to show it.
Finally, and most importantly of all, make sure that your partner is your best friend and vice versa. You need to be able to count on each other when the going gets tough, as well as being the first person the other one comes too when things are going well too. If things go well, this person could be the most important person in your life one day, so a foundation of friendship is essential (as well as a few romantic Valentine’s Days!)
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