You’ve sensed that your relationship is stale. But it is not a new feeling, it has been like that for the past few months, maybe even years. It might have slipped in quietly or taken a slow and steady toll on the vitality of your connection. Whether it arrived like a whisper or a rollercoaster, the feeling of staleness in your relationship is making itself known and asking for your attention. The good news? It doesn’t mean your relationship is ending. The other news? It’s time to roll up your sleeves and start working. More: The number one red flag in a relationship
Don’t pass on your passions, to settle in the stale normality. Endure. Strive. Ensure.
Anthony Liccione
Feeling disenchanted with a partner or relationship is pretty normal. Relationships can go through a phase. Things feel stuck, the chemistry is not as strong, communication is off, and something just seems not quite right. During this phase, you might experience confusion, boredom, or even pain in your relationship. However, it also presents an opportunity to connect with your partner on a deeper, more genuine level. To break free from the feeling that your relationship is stale, it’s essential to confront the discomfort and actively work towards reconnecting. More: How to avoid a power struggle in a relationship?
Purpose in life and its effect on relationships
People who feel their lives have a purpose are usually happier in their relationships. They are more devoted to their partners, according to researchers from Northwestern University and Washington University in St. Louis. These “purposeful partners” invest time and energy into their relationships, making them better at overcoming obstacles and conflicts that may arise.
Interestingly, the study also suggests that relationships can bring a sense of purpose to individuals, giving them a reason to navigate each day. You might relate to this idea – your partner and the routines you share could be shaping your life, and the thought of life without them might feel empty. More: Assertiveness definition: How to Communicate with Confidence?
Since purpose in life and relationships can influence each other, the researchers suggest studying the connection using a “transactional” approach. This means looking at how purpose in life at one time predicts relationship satisfaction at a later time, and vice versa. This approach helps avoid the problem of assuming causation from a single point in time. It ensures a more accurate understanding of the relationship between purpose and relationship satisfaction. More: Top 5 communication coach tips for effective communication
7 tips# you can try when the relationship is stale
- Give your relationship priority
In the beginning, it’s easy to prioritize our partner and the relationship, fueled by hormones and excitement. However, as time passes, our attention often shifts to other responsibilities like kids, work, or caring for parents. It’s crucial to bring that focus back and make the relationship a priority to ensure its longevity.
- Set a long-term goal together
Think about old goals that got forgotten or make up some new ones. Having a goal that excites both of you can bring back the enthusiasm and feeling of working together in your relationship.
- Face conflicts head-on
Avoiding tough conversations or sidestepping issues can hinder intimacy in a relationship. Even the strongest relationships may lose their spark without openness. To keep things fresh, don’t shy away from difficult topics and allow room for healthy conflict. More: Signs you are not putting enough effort in a relationship
- Be yourself
While it might be scary to express our thoughts, set boundaries, and stay true to ourselves, a relationship can’t flourish if one or both partners aren’t showing their genuine selves.
- Make room for openness
It’s crucial to have a safe space where both partners can let their guard down and be themselves. When we feel safe being open, we’re more likely to bring our true selves to the relationship. More: The power of sincere gratitude
- Hang out with happy couples
Spending time with couples who are happy can give us something positive to aim for. Being around inspiring couples models the behavior and connection we want in our relationship.
- Take some alone time
If you’ve been spending too much time together and feeling stuck, it might be because you need a little break. Humans like new things, and if both partners are always together, there’s nothing fresh to bring into the relationship. Spend some time apart, and then share what you’ve experienced during your time alone. More: The essential values of friendship: How to be a better friend
