3 Ideas That Could Improve Your Marriage

Every marriage has its ups and downs. In the middle of a drawn-out global pandemic, it can be particularly hard to feel great about your relationships and changing lifestyle. The great news is that there are ways to add spark and connection back into your primary relationship if you and your partner have been struggling. If you're both willing to try, these three steps alone could make a big impact on your marriage.

1. Couples Retreats and Therapy

If you and your partner have been off lately and you're looking for a way to bring a new spark or connection to your relationship, a simple Google search for "couples therapy retreat near me" could be a great first step in getting the tools you need to help your marriage. Not only will trained and licensed therapists work to help you to reconnect to your shared dream, but they can give you exercises and communication resources that will help your marriage in the future, too.

For many couples, the idea of taking time away from busy schedules and responsibilities can seem overwhelming. However, research shows that investing in your primary relationship is a great way to improve your overall mental health and can add up to a happier and more productive life. By making your relationship a number one priority, you'll have less stress and be able to work as a team to handle life's ups and downs more effectively.

2. One Nice Thing

A common therapy exercise used for couples struggling to keep the spark alive is called "one nice thing." Marriage and family therapists, also used for couples therapy, suggest that you go out of your way to do one nice thing per day for the person you love. Whether this is leaving a simple love note in their lunch cooler or doing that extra load of laundry without being asked, by taking the time to do something for your spouse every day, you'll both be happier and more likely to appreciate each other.

Maybe you know your husband has grown tired of his same work clothes and saw that there are ties for sale at a favorite store that you pass on the way to work. Taking the time to stop by for a gift certificate tie in a pattern he'll love is a great way to remind him that he's important to you.

3. Establishing Differentiated Comfort Zones

Healthy boundaries and relationships are key to self-care and better mental health. While your work with a therapist or daily actions can add up to a big difference in your marriage, it's also important to clearly communicate your own wants and needs when it comes to private time and space.

In order to be your best self, everyone needs time on their own. Communicating with your partner about the three keys to healthy marital differentiation is important. Differentiation is made up of boundaries, connectedness, and self-definition. In a healthy marriage, each spouse should feel free to set aside time for themself, state their needs for connection, and define what matters to them outside of the relationship. In making an effort to honor each other's differences, you'll be helping to strengthen your relationship for the long term. Start by making a list of things you value as a couple as well as hobbies and interests you'd prefer to do alone and make time for them.

At the end of the day, you and your spouse can have a fantastic relationship if you're willing to make your bond a priority. Whether you work first on improving intimacy or a plan to renew your vows, your commitment to each other and your own selves is a great step in the right direction. Good luck to you and your spouse as you work to improve your relationship!