When life gets crazy, it can be hard take on a habit that could save your marriage. But in the long run, it's completely worth it. Despite your busy schedule you have time for this marriage-saving habit; Spending one-on-one time with your spouse is crucial to your marriage. It would be awesome if you could go on an actual date with your significant other each week, but sometimes that's just not possible. Spending one-on-one time together however, should be. Even if it is just an hour after the kids go to sleep, you need to have this habit in your marriage. Here's why:
1. You can really open up and talk
When you are alone with your spouse have can talk about whatever you want. You don't have to watch what you say because your kids are around or because you're afraid someone might overhear you. There is something special about having honest conversations with your husband or wife; somehow, it seems to make things better. Whether it's a problem at work, an issue with your extended family or even something little that upset you that day, talking about it helps get it off your chest. Your spouse knows how to make you feel better and comfort you when you're worried or upset. Make time for this. These conversations are vital to your overall emotional health, and will build trust in your marriage.
2. You get to reconnect with your spouse
During an average day, a lot happens. You go to work, attend meetings, juggle kid's activities, participate in community events, you pay bills, clean the house, make meals, etc....the list goes on and on. It's easy to get lost in the chaos of activities and forget what matters most. By setting up a time each week to do something fun together without kids (or other couples), you are reminded of the reasons you two fell in love. These moments alone can be as simple as playing round of tennis or watching a movie a home on the couch, but by doing something alone together you get the chance to reconnect with your honey.
3. You find out what is bothering them
During the week, we don't really have the time to sit down and discuss problems. While hopefully you don't have to do this too often, by having alone time with your spouse, you know there's a time each week where you can discuss issues. By getting problems out in the open you can find solutions earlier on and prevent bigger fights down the road.
4. You make plans for your future
When you and your spouse are alone, it can make you feel more secure in your future together. Dreaming about the future together is exciting and fun; it helps you set goals for your family and have hope for a more fulfilling life together. Having something to look forward to can often help us through the hard times we all face. Perhaps there is a vacation you want to take, or a career change you want to make. Take the time to discuss your options and make a future plan for your family.
5. You can discuss your kids
It's always important to talk about your kids, especially when they aren't there. With your spouse, talk about how your kids are doing, concerns you have, hopes you have, and successes they had during the week. Taking the time to talk your little ones when they're not around really allows you to more openly discuss what is really going on. Parents need to be on the same page when it comes to their kids, so knowing both sides of the story is vital when it comes to making decisions about your children.
6. You can do other things
Often times we are so exhausted by the end of the day all we want to do is crawl into bed and go to sleep. While sleep is nice, if you go straight to bed, it doesn't allow any room for the intimate aspects of marriage. If we have time set aside to spend alone together it gives us the opportunity to relax, enjoy each other's company, and even rekindle the flame which initially brought you together.
The simple act of spending alone time together can really have an impact on your marriage. If you haven't already made it a priority in your life, do so now. You'll be amazed to see how it changes your relationship.
