Drifting Apart? How to Reconnect & Set Relationship Priorities
It's inevitable that at some point, you won't feel connected to your partner. Over time, all of the little things seem to get in the way. Being busy with work, raising kids, social and household obligations. All of these can get in the way of the bond between you. Even worse, is when there is tension and conflict that makes you not see eye to eye.
When you're in a relationship, you want to feel connected and bonded with your partner. But what happens when you feel as if you are drifting apart? How do you repair this connection? Can it be fixed?
No matter what the reasons are behind your disconnection, there is always hope that it can turn around. There is hope that you can close the gap that is formed in your relationship and make your relationship a priority. Below, here are some ways to strengthen your relationship.
Have An Honest Conversation
Maybe both of you have noticed the growing distance between you. Or perhaps only one of you is withdrawn. Either way, this is a time when an honest conversation needs to happen. You can't acknowledge a problem if you don't admit that one exists.
So, if you feel like your distance is becoming too great, open up about it. Let your partner know how you are perceiving the problem. You may not be able to resolve the issue right then and there, it's true. However, you can get on the right path to understanding and meaningful change.
Carve Out Some Time For Each Other
There always seems to be too much going on. It's hard to make time for each other when it seems like there is none available. Most couples believe that they need a ton of uninterrupted time to bond. While that may help, it isn't very realistic for most couples.
Instead of feeling that you need to spend hours alone together, intentionally carve out some small chunks of time regularly. Even if it's just 15 minutes in the morning to talk over a cup of coffee. Or try cleaning up the dishes together after dinner. Even laying in bed before you both fall asleep can become cherished quality time together.
By making an effort, even if they are only small amounts of time, you can both feel more connected and in tune with each other's lives.
Show Each Other Appreciation
Unfortunately, it's really common to take the ones we love for granted. Over time, we have a tendency to stop saying thank you. To stop showing our gratitude for the little things our partners do for us and our families can lead to resentment.
Maybe we just don't do it because we assume the other person knows. We assume that they know why we are appreciative of what they do for us. Maybe they do. Or maybe, they don't feel seen and acknowledged. Why take that chance?
One of the biggest things you can do to reconnect with your partner is to show your gratitude. Even just a simple, "Thank you for taking the garbage out," sends positive signals to your partner. It shows them that you see what they are doing and their willingness to contribute to your life together.
What Are Your Priorities And Goals Of The Relationship?
Finally, are you certain of each other's priorities? Do you both feel as if you are putting effort into the relationship? If not, what do you feel would help you reconnect? Is it a weekly date night? Going to the movies? Just spending time on the couch snuggled up together?
Be honest about what you both need. And, even if it isn't something necessarily you want to do, consider making the effort to do it anyway. Relationships are often about sacrifice and honoring our partner's needs. You may need to do the things we don't want to do for the good of the relationship. If it's important to them, and not in conflict with your core values, it should be important to you too.
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Keeping the connection and fire kindling between you two is so important. It helps to strengthen the bond and ensure success for a future together. If you are struggling to find the connection between you and your partner, read more about couples counseling, Then please reach out to get started on this journey together.