There's a common myth that there is such thing as a perfect relationship. They think of the type of relationship that never falters because both parties remain passionately in love until they're holding hands across rocking chairs. There is not a single fight, so no need to fix a relationship rut. This false ideal, though, is rooted in rom-coms and country songs. It ignores the reality that everyone dwindles from time-to-time, and it's completely normal to grow comfortable with your partner, even to the point of boredom. Just about anyone in a relationship will experience this at some point.

This is not a sign of incompatibility. In fact, it can signify just the opposite. You are so in-sync with your significant other that you've fallen with ease into a simplified routine. As long as love and respect still exist as the foundation of your connection, excitement can quite seamlessly slip back into your everyday life. The key is to become cognizant of the warning signs that you are indeed entering a rut, and actively try to break it. If you're committed to shaking things up, the intention alone is indication enough that what you're fighting for is indeed worth it. These date ideas will help.

Stargaze at the planetarium.

There's something super romantic about staring up at the stars. It reminds you how small you both are in such a vast universe. If it's too chilly outside or light pollution makes your view not-so-pretty, take the gazing inside. Many colleges have planetariums that are open to the public. They don’t only just show stars, but sometimes will play movies as well. See if there are any in your local area that you can visit.

Find a local festival.

Have you ever been to a food truck festival? Go around from truck to truck and rate your favorites. If the winning truck has a standalone restaurant, then you already have the next idea for another date. Check to see what locally you have going on in your city. There are many free music festivals that help you both discover new artists you like, or venture to a wine and beer festivals to help you try out new flavors. Art festivals are also very popular across the nation.

Do a photography date.

Plan an impromptu photoshoot with one of you as the photographer and the other as the model. All you need to do is to choose a location as the backdrop for your “photoshoot.” Don’t forget to grab your camera or smartphone. Another idea would be for both of you to play photographer together. Pick a subject that you’d like to photograph. It could be anything- architecture, nature, animals, street art, or people. Once you’ve decided on your subject, let the search begin. It’s time to explore and seek out subjects to photograph.

Plan a trip somewhere.

Plan an extra special trip instead of doing your regular date night. Forgo your usual favorite restaurant date and instead save your money. Book a weekend getaway or vacation somewhere you're dying to go. If you're not looking to break the bank, take a few days and take a trip to nowhere. Just get in the car and drive where the wind takes you. It will give you loads of time together, plus a chance to make some new memories. You’ll get to do all of this without your daily routines distracting you and weighing you down. You'll be feeling the excitement and adrenaline again.

Have a game night with friends.

Spending some time with your shared friends is a good grounding technique. By doing so, it reminds you of your shared life together. A game night means that you'll be constantly engaging with each other and being silly together, so you can let off steam and reconnect. You’ll be laughing and enjoying each other’s company without the stress of kids and work. So grab a beer, pick out your favorite game, and enjoy the night.

Soak up the season.

Take advantage of the season you’re in and the special things that you can do only at that time of the year. If it’s the fall find a way to take in the fleeting beauty of fall foliage. Seek out a spot to soak up the scenic views. If it’s the summer, get out and enjoy the sun, find a local beach, or body of water where you might hop on a ferry, or try out some water sports. During the cool winter months, get out and enjoy the snow- build a snowman, make snow angels, or engage in some winter sports like snowboarding or ice skating. If you’d prefer to stay out of the cold, find a place with a fireplace where you can cozy up with your S.O. Spring is the perfect time to go for a hike, plan a picnic, or go apple and strawberry picking. These date ideas work year round!

Visit an escape room.

If you want to take it to the next level, try out an escape room. An adrenaline rush, team work, and a feeling of accomplishment all in one? Yes please. This is a group activity where you have to solve mind games in order to “escape”. It’s a great way to work together as a team with others and get to know each other. You’ll all get to know each other pretty quickly.

If you feel disconnected from your partner, you need to nip it in the bud. Make some time to get reconnect and plan a different kind of date. You can get yourselves back on track and have more fun than you ever had before.