How to Keep the Flame Alive in Your Relationship

We all remember that first spark we felt inside the second we met our partners. It’s a dizzying and intoxicating feeling that just makes the world seem a little softer. And while those first few months are an essential part of a relationship, true love is a marathon, not a sprint.

But with work, kids, daily stresses to contend with, it’s not always easy to keep that torch of passion burning as brightly as it should. It’s no one’s fault, but let’s be honest – all long-term relationships need a little more fire now and then. 

So, how are you going to keep that flame alive when so many of its embers get extinguished by mother nature, father time and other external factors? With a little enamoree magic, you can reignite date night, and resuscitate those dying flames into a scorching bonfire. 

How? Here’s how!

Daily Compliments do Wonders 

Sometimes that one off-hand compliment sets your partner up for the rest of the day. You look great today. That really suits you. I’m so lucky to be with you. 

Try to have one unique complement handy each day for your partner. It can be anything from their smile to the way they always manage to make you laugh. All that really matters is that you let them know how appreciated they are, each and every day. 

Make Time for Yourselves 

Easier said than done, right? After all, how many times have you said you’ll do something fun or get some alone time, only to crash after a long day?

It’s perfectly understandable. But if you don’t nip it in the bud, that lack of alone time can bloom into some rather ugly terms. Mainly, taking each other for granted and not making an effort. 

Set specific but realistic goals. A thirty-minute cuddle. An intimate conversation away from electronic devices. Some serious snuggle action. Whatever it is, make it for the both of you and forget the rest of the world briefly. 

Experience Something New Together 

Ever go out to eat and see those couples who just have nothing to say to one another? Think of them as your relationship’s Ghost of Christmas Future. How do you avoid such a depressing fate? Shake things up a bit!

No one is recommending you bleach your hair or shave their name into the family pet. It can be as simple as trying a new restaurant in the area or visiting a new place for the weekend. Hell, even if it’s just refusing to choose the same old thing you order from your favourite takeaway. 

Be partners in crime and get that joy or something new to try together and discuss. (1)

Be Their Biggest Cheerleader

With long-term relationships come chores, dishes, and an array of boring adult tasks. And with these tasks can come a rigid set of characters that we cast ourselves as around the house. 

The ‘villain’ who is always asking people to tidy up and do things around the house, and the person who feels constantly nagged into doing things when they just want to relax. Of course, you both do your fair share, but it’s easy to fall into these traps after a long day at work. 

Be sure to encourage one another in anything from taking up a hobby they’re considering to thanking them for helping around the house. A few confidence boosts will inspire far more passion and care than a million frustrated nudges!