There comes a point in every relationship where we can feel a bit "disconnected" from our partner. Maybe you've been really busy with work or other obligations. Maybe you haven't spent that much time with them lately. Maybe you feel kind of emotionally distant. Or, maybe you have spent time together, but something has just been feeling "off."
When this happens, we can find ourselves really questioning the relationship: Are we supposed to be together? Is it always going to be like this from here on out?
Though it may seem like things are falling apart in this moments, it's not necessarily the end, but merely a sign to do something different. So here are things we can do when we're feeling disconnected in our relationship:
1. Go along with what they want to do -- even if it isn't quite your cup of tea. Is there something that your partner wants to do with you, but you've been making every excuse not to do it? Do they have a favorite hobby that they want to share with you, but you're not very excited about it?
Whatever it is -- do it with them! Even if you might hate it. Even if you find yourself bored or even a bit miserable. And you know why it's good to do it with them? Because if they truly want you to do it, they will appreciate and value the fact that you went out of your way to do it with them. They will be happy because you decided to really value the relationship more than yourself.
Now, of course, I don't mean that you need to do it all the time. But if your partner truly respects you then they will simply appreciate your effort for stepping outside of your box for them.
2. Reflect back to them their positive traits that you enjoy. To say "thank you" when they buy you dinner or give you a gift is one thing, but to let them know that they are truly being seen takes it to a whole new level.
So, for instance, is your partner very helpful around the house? Is your partner a great listener? Is your partner very affectionate? If so, then tell them! Casually say, "Wow, you are so affectionate -- it's great!" In doing so they will feel more seen, loved and appreciated in the relationship.
3. Let yourself ask those more intimate questions. Is there something you've wanted to ask your partner, but you held back because of fear? Maybe it is how they felt about some past event or what their motivation was behind an action they made.
Whatever it is, ask with openness and curiosity to really know and discover more about them. If any questions to ask come up with the underlying motivation to release some kind of underlying anxiety or with some need to control, then let it go. Rather, ask through that inner soul desire to truly learn more about your partner.
4. Ask yourself (and him): What can we do that would make us feel more love? Note here that I did not say "What can he do..." The reason for this is because we don't want to find ourselves caught up in this place of all these things that we wish our partner was doing to make us happier and more loved. It isn't healthy and, frankly, it's just flat out codependent.
So, the key here is to take personal responsibility for your own happiness but, since it is a relationship, to have the intention of really making changes together as one unit. So, what kinds of things could you both change in order to feel more love your relationship? What new activity might you do together? How might you start acting differently? What new things might be talked about? Will you cook for each other? Will you be more affectionate?
5. Spend time giving them your undivided attention. This kind of sounds like a no-brainer, but I feel like we all need this reminder every so often. Whenever we get really stressed out about several things, we can find ourselves so wrapped up in all the things we have to do that we forget to simply just stop and take the time to really enjoy being with our partner.
So, before checking emails or answering phone calls, take the time to simply just be with your partner. Enjoy early morning hugs and kisses without thinking about all the stuff you have to do. Focus completely on the present moment of just being with them and that is all.
Yes, it sounds simple, but sometimes taking the time to just really be with our partner each day is actually all we really need to turn our relationship around.
Ultimately, remember this: When we are feeling disconnected from our partner, it isn't necessarily a sign to leave, but to go deeper. It's a sign to make subtle changes in order to open your heart and create more intimacy. Sure, it may not always work out for both parties and parting ways may become the best option, but it should be the last resort.
If you're in a relationship, what could you start doing from the list above today to enhance your relationship? If you're not in a relationship, what is something that you didn't do in the past that you could start doing in your next relationship? Share in the comments below!