Add More Romance to Your Marriage

Many of us have plenty of romance in the beginning stages of our relationships. When we first start dating there may be quiet and intimate dinners out, dates doing fun activities together, or even special surprises and gifts. For many couples who get married however, these romantic moments often become less and less frequent, especially as demands such as work or parenting begin taking priority over the relationship. If your relationship could benefit from a little romance, here are some easy ideas for you and your partner to become closer together again:

1. Schedule Time Together: We all live hectic lives with schedules full of everything from doctor's appointments to taking kids to baseball practice. It's not uncommon for many couples to realize they've gone an entire day without saying more to their husband or wife "Can you pick the kids up later?" Scheduling time together without distractions is one of the most important things you can do for one another. Plan a night a week where you do something fun together and without anyone else. It doesn't need to be elaborate - for some just cuddling on the sofa watching a movie is all you need to reconnect with one another.

2. Make the Effort Everyday: Romance shouldn't be saved for just special occasions such as Valentine's day or birthdays. There are many opportunities throughout the day where you can tell your partner how much they mean to you or that you are thinking about them. Holding hands while you are grocery shopping or sending a text message to them while they are at work are simple, small gestures that can make all the difference.

3. Put Your Partner's Needs Ahead of Your Own: It's easy to get wrapped up in thinking of only your own needs. But when both partners put each other's needs ahead of their own, it can greatly help in making sure neither person feels as if they are doing all of the work or feel resentful. This can be practiced as simply as offering to help out with one of the chores around the house that your partner typically is responsible for.

4. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: There are a lot of little things in a relationship that can overtime cause anger and resentment instead of feelings of love and affection. Maybe your partner has the habit of leaving dishes in the sink or never remembers to turn off the TV. These things are not worth getting upset over! Instead, brainstorm together for ways that you can help each other remember or make a compromise that will help you both save the arguments or frustration for more important matters.

5. Take Time Out for Yourself: You can't expect to spend every living breathing moment with one person without becoming annoyed or agitated at some point. While it's equally important to spend quality time together, you should also make sure that you take the time out for yourself to do things you enjoy or to explore your own feelings. Maybe allowing each of you to have a night out with friends or taking a time out for a relaxing bubble bath is all you need to recharge.

Romance doesn't always have to mean flowers or chocolates or other romantic gifts - it can be very simple things such as leaving a note on a mirror. By practicing these suggestions above as well as incorporating small gestures of love into your daily routine, you and your partner can have that romance again.