As far as nurturing your relationship goes, there are a heck of a lot of things (like kids and work and constantly-texting mothers-in-law) that get in the way. But instead of trying to juggle it all, prioritize doing the following nine things together annually to help your bond—and couple connection—grow.
9 Things All Couples Should Do Once a Year
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Published Jan 24, 2017
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Have A State Of The Union About Finances
Sure, you both know the ballpark balances of your investments and 401(k), but planning a conversation that’s a deep dive into your bottom line is a smart idea so you can stay on the same page about short- and long-term financial goals. It also affords you the opportunity to recalculate if something (like your emergency savings or kids’ college funds) is running low.
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And A Big Blowout Fight
For the love of Pete, if your husband doesn’t learn to load the dishwasher properly, you’re going to scream. OK, now you’re screaming. It’s not only cathartic, it’s good for your overall relationship health since, eventually, you’ll have to hash things out and reach a compromise. (Hello, growth.)
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Have Sex In A Weird New Place
Like the kitchen…or in the backseat or the high school parking lot. (Hey, whatever floats your boat.)
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And Follow Through On A New Couple Couple
That mom and dad you traded numbers with at parent/teacher conferences last week? Give a double date a whirl to see where it leads. If you hit it off, score. You have new—and nearby—friends to hang with. If it’s awkward, oh well. You can always hide in the back of the next school play.
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Binge-watch A New Show
Because we all know the best weekends are the ones when not even a Saturday afternoon yoga class can you tear you away from all ten episodes of The Crown.
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Set A Joint Google Alert To Book Doctor Appointments
Your physical happens once a year. Remind each other to get it on the books, so you’re both keeping tabs on your health (and neither one of you has to nag).
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Mandate A Closet Cleanout
He has 259 T-shirts. You have 17 pairs of leggings in varying condition. Do each other a favor and book a weekend to weed through together. (Trust us, the extra closet space will benefit you both.)
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And Play Hooky From Work
No one has to know that instead of nursing a cold on your couch, you’re on a road trip to check out a craft beer brewery two towns over.
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Splurge On A Non-anniversary Date Night
You don’t have to break the bank, but treating yourselves to a night on the town—a fancy dinner, dancing or, heck, a weekend away—can be all it takes to recharge together and nurture your bond.
