How to Revive Romance in a Relationship

Whether your relationship is in a bit of a slump, or you simply want to add a new spark, these romantic tips are for you. Any time is the perfect time to renew your commitment to your partner and add positive energy to your relationship. To help you get started, I will give you several simple ideas for reviving romance.

When you make changes as a couple, be sure to make these changes with the idea that each should benefit both of you and strengthen your relationship. In other words, be careful not to make resolutions that add too much pressure to your relationship. (e.g., be careful when making decisions about finances or other common stressors). It is better to make healthy resolutions, which emphasize the positive, rather than a list of don'ts. Remember that these resolutions are not something to hold over your partner's head later!

Romantic Tip #1

Plan a romantic date night each month. If you already have a date night each month, resolve to also do at least one thing you both have always wanted to do--visit a museum, take a day trip, etc. If you don't feel you have the time for a date night each month, try to find a way to make time for one. With proper time-management there is rarely a good reason why you won't be able to set aside one romantic night per month. Also, a date night does not have to cost money or be extravagant. All it requires is you and your partner. Period.

Romantic Tip #2

Resolve to give each other more hugs. Studies have shown that hugs lower blood pressure and boost mood. In the hustle and bustle of daily drudgery, it is easy to forget to stop to connect with a partner.

Romantic Tip #3 Resolve to listen to each other. No matter how good a listener you believe you are, listening skills can always be improved. Listening goes far beyond merely hearing what someone is saying. Listening requires awareness, alertness. Listening is active; hearing is passive. When you are actively listening to someone, your brain is focused on what the person is saying, and not on your own mental chatter about what you think the person is saying.

Romantic Tip #4 Add at least one romantic extra special "something" to your normal routine. One idea: the romance jar. This is a jar filled with little slips of paper with quotes or little love notes or "coupons" for hugs, kisses, massages etc. The romance jar is especially nice for people who must travel a lot. Just fill the jar up with love notes and leave them for your partner. Every day while you are gone, whenever loneliness strikes your loved one, she or he can pull a note from the jar and read a personalized note of love and devotion.

Romantic Tip #5 Finally, change one bad habit that negatively affects your relationship. This decision should be made individually and you don't have to share what it is with your partner. No matter how wonderful a relationship is, it can always be improved. The positive change can be something as simple as picking your dirty socks off the floor, or it can be as serious as avoiding yelling when angry or annoyed. Changes do not have to be extreme. Small, positive changes can have a big impact on any relationship.