Whoa, you and your partner have been together how long? Remember, relationships are a work in progress (yep, even on the days you feel super smitten), which is why it never hurts to make tiny tweaks to maximize your couple joy. Here, nine low-effort things to try right now.
THANK YOUR PARTNER FOR ONE THING THEY DO FOR YOU EACH DAY
Like passing you the OJ at breakfast. Or walking the dog. (Taking these things for granted is a relationship no-no.)
AND BE ON THEIR SIDE ABOUT SOMETHING THAT’S BOTHERING THEM
It’s tempting to play devil’s advocate with the people you love, but sometimes—in the moment—they just need a listening ear. (Don’t worry, you can still ask questions and offer your two cents later.)
BUY NEW UNDERWEAR
Sure, no one cares that there are pills on your panties or that you’ve reverted back to the comfort fit. But replacing a particularly stretched-out style every now and again is an easy way to show you’re making an effort—not just for them, but for you.
AND SHOW UP ON TIME
Another sign we take our loved ones for granted: It’s no big deal if we run five or ten minutes late, right? Surprise your partner by arriving on time or—gasp—early. (Whoa, look at you securing seats at the bar.)
PUT AWAY YOUR PHONE
The number one sign of affection and attention: “No, of course, my phone isn’t as important as this conversation we’re having right now.”
AND ALWAYS ASK: “HOW WAS YOUR DAY?”
Yep, even if you walked in the door super late (and hungry) and they have their hands full wrangling the kids. That 30 seconds makes a big difference.
EAT AT THE DINNER TABLE
It’s also the easiest place to execute the above suggestion. “So, how was your day?”
VOLUNTEER TO HANDLE AN ERRAND ON THEIR TO-DO LIST
Seriously, there’s no kinder gesture in the world than taking an annoying task off your S.O.’s plate. (Think grocery shopping, doing the dishes, or relieving the nanny if they’re running late.)
MAKE OUT
Yay, it’s like you’re dating again. So simple, yet so fun.
