So you and your spouse have found yourselves spending an extended period of time in your home together. Maybe one of you is sick, recovering from surgery, or out of work. Perhaps you’re snowed in for a few days. Or, if you’re like many of us around the world right now, you’re self-quarantining in the face of a global pandemic.
Whatever the reason, the two of you are suddenly spending a lot more time together at home. It’s important to look at this time as an opportunity to rekindle your bond, deepen your relationship, and make happy memories together.
Whether you have an empty nest or kids at home, you can set an intention to focus on your marriage while you’re hunkered down. Let’s look at a few simple things you can do while you’re stuck at home together.
Have a real conversation
When is the last time the two of you sat down together, face to face, and had a deep, meaningful conversation? Now is the time to do it again! Commit to open, vulnerable communication, and listen to one another well. This is your chance to open up, and to be more open to your spouse.
Watch your favorite films together
Pop some popcorn, snuggle up on the couch with a blanket, and have a movie night! When it comes to choosing a film, the sky’s the limit. You can watch some old favorites from your dating days, or check out something new. The goal is simply to have a good time together.
Have a game night
Do you have some favorite board games you enjoy playing together? Make an evening of it. Create your own scavenger hunt for your spouse to find love notes or other memorable items. You can also play a lighthearted game of spin-the-bottle to add in a little romance.
Cook for each other
If either (or both) of you enjoys cooking, why don’t you create some of your favorite recipes for one another? Life can get so hectic that sometimes we don’t have the time to cook the way we’d like to. Take advantage of the slowdown and whip up a delicious meal or dessert.
Look through old photos and home movies
There’s nothing like photo albums and home movies to stir up a joyful sense of nostalgia between you and your spouse. If you have kids, get them in on the fun, too. Tell stories and share in those happy memories, and your kids might just learn a few new things about their parents and extended family.
Dream of the future
Disruptions and challenging times tend to remind us what our true priorities are. When we’re in the midst of a difficult time, those priorities lead us to dream of a better future. Spend some time with your spouse dreaming about positive changes you’d like to make going forward.
You can talk about places you’d like to go and experiences you want to have when you return to your normal routine. Make a list if you want, so you can revisit it from time to time when life becomes hectic again.
Get to know one another better
Now is the perfect time to get to know each other better than you ever have before. Deepening your relationship will pay dividends in the future, well beyond the time you’re spending at home right now.
Luckily, we have a tool that can help you out. The Better Love Assessment is a quick, easy test the two of you can take to learn more about each other–and how to relate to one another better. If you want less conflict, better sex, more laughter, and deeper conversations, check out Better Love. Learn more here.
Are you enjoying your time at home with your spouse? Let us know about some of the fun memories you’re making during this unusual time.
What is the difference between better love assessment and SYMBIS assessment?