A strong relationship relies on two people working to make it strong. When one person stops caring about the other, the relationship can flounder. When both people stop caring, it can grow stale.
2024 can be the year that you reinvest in your significant other.
You can take steps to make your relationship stronger and healthier. Start with these six New Year’s resolutions to improve your relationship, and see which ones will fit your relationship needs.
#1) Communicate More
Talk with your significant other about how you wish they would communicate. For example, do you want them to share their thoughts and feelings more, or do you simply just want to know where they are and what they are doing?
Explain why this communication matters to you. Then, both of you can take steps to fill these communication needs in the new year.
#2) Focus on Small Affectionate Moments
Love isn’t always grand gestures and big moments. Love happens in small moments: a quick kiss goodbye, a light caress, small compliments, saying “I love you.” Commit to bringing back these small moments and making your relationship more affectionate.
#3) Put Technology Aside
In the new year, create “technology-free zones” where you put down your phones and focus on each other. This could be over a weekly dinner, where your phones and other technology are placed in another room, or through morning walks and other couples’ activities.
You may think that you two already spend time together, but putting away your tech can give you the opportunity to be truly present.
#4) Increase Your Intimacy
Being more intimate seems like a fun New Year’s resolution, and it can be for many couples. Even the strongest couples can get into patterns with their sex lives. The frequency decreases, as does the level of adventure, which can be frustrating for both parties. Use 2024 to bring sexy back. Commit to having sex more often and talk about new ideas and ways your partner can please you – and that you can please them.
#5) Laugh With Each Other
Your significant other is meant to be there when you are going through difficult times. They are there to build you up, not create more work. If your relationship feels like it is draining you more than energizing you, look for ways to relax and laugh together. Head to the movies together or go for a walk. When you both relax and lean on each other, you can remember why you fell in love.
#6) Consider Seeking Professional Help
You can’t solve all of your relationship problems on your own. If there is a serious issue with your significant other or your partner, consider seeking professional help through an integrated behavioral health specialist. This can range from signing up for couples therapy to reaching out to mental health professionals for treatment options.
Asking for help is never a sign of weakness, and it can lead you to healing.
You don’t have to give up sweets or commit to going to the gym for your New Year’s resolution. Instead, take steps to focus on your relationship and watch how you and your significant other reconnect through these efforts and actions.
Some practitioners, like the leaders at Sunshine Health, make integrated behavioral health a priority, so every patient is cared for mentally and physically. It's the best way to grow healthy relationships.
Cover photo courtesy of Unsplash
