5 ways to enhance your Love-Life

1) The ten minute catch uprnTake a crack at varying your nightly routine to allow time. For example, instead of switching on the TV straight after kissing your little cherubs goodnight, spend ten minutes chatting as a couple. Similarly, rather than having dinner on the table at 6pm on the dot, make it ten minutes later and while the kids are doing their homework, or playing, enjoy a glass of wine, or a cold drink together before you sit down to have a meal as a family. Steer clear of talking about the kids during this ‘us’ time if possible. 2) Date night rnOnce the initial spark of your early relationship fades and kids come into the equation, it’s more crucial than ever to reconnect with your significant other and revitalize those relationship batteries. Apart from giving you a break from the kids, a regular date night with your partner is a chance for you to be alone with each other and be romantic. From dressing up and spraying on perfume, to good conversation, red wine and sex, dating your partner can spice up your relationship. Find some funds in the family finances to make date night a priority. If you’re lucky enough to have free of charge babysitting on call, book grandparents for a regular date night slot. If money is an issue, suggest a babysitting swap arrangement with your friends who also have children. Whether your date night is once a week, once a fortnight, or once a month, make a commitment and a promise to your partner that you’ll be there. Put it on the calendar and think of it as an obligation (that you enjoy!) just as important as a doctor’s appointment. 3) Know your needsrnRelationships Australia (RA) says one way to enrich a relationship is to speak about each other’s relationship needs. By doing this you’re not only showing your partner that you value his needs and feelings, but you are also letting him know what you need from the partnership. RA recommends that you both write down five qualities, or needs, that are most important to each of you in your relationship. Have a look at each other’s list and see which of your partner’s needs you can do something about, and which you need to negotiate and vice versa. 4) “You're so talented!” rnStudy has demonstrated that people often don’t stray outside a marriage for sex, but because someone else has made them feel worthy about themselves. Flatter, praise and make your partner feel great about themselves, at any time the opportunity arises. Chances are they’ll catch on to your drift and the compliments will come your way too! 5) Make friends with technologyrnTake advantage of modern communication technology to make your partner feel noteworthy when you’re not together. A plain “thinking of u” text before a work meeting he’s nervous about, or a quick “love u” instant message, or email, while you’re with the kids at the playground will make you both feel closer when apart.