Believe it or not, the same principle applies to romantic relationships and being in love. Letting your significant other know you love them when you are with them is great, but it can mean even more when other people tell them about how excited and proud of your romantic relationship you really are.
Even if you’re by yourself, washing your dishes by hand can be a calming, relaxing and meditative experience. Don’t laugh! The warm water, the gentle scrubbing, and the attention needed to be paid to each fork and glass can combine to help you get your mind off of your troubles and release tension.
Today’s society tends to stress independence and self-reliance, which is one reason why “clinginess” and “public displays of affection” have become so taboo. Getting too sappy while you’re in a public place is something you should avoid, but staying clear of all affection while you’re out together is just plain silly. The truly happy couple isn’t embarrassed to show the word that they are in love in a tasteful and romantic way. Holding hands, kissing your lover on the cheek and doing small, special things for each other are as appropriate in public as they are in the home.
It may feel that way, but it doesn’t have to bethat way. With patience and optimism, a truly romantic person will find someone with whom to share love again. But if you’re the romantic type, why wait until you find another lover to live a life of romance? Just because you’re single doesn’t mean you have to stop being a romantic person. Remember: even single people can live romantic lives, and doing so is great practice for the time when you do have someone to share it with.
What are your lover’s hobbies and interests? Perhaps they enjoy watching a certain sport, or listening to a certain kind of music, or a specific fun activity. I’m sure that one or two of those interests are things that you’ve never given much thought to trying yourself. But taking some time to explore your sweetheart’s interests will do wonders for your romantic relationship, and might even lead to a little fun for you!
Reiterating to your sweetheart that your romantic relationship is your number one priority–even more important than your career or other obligations that might keep you away–could be step that you need to take to build a better romance. Many of us take for granted that our lover knows that they are our “number one,” but sharing a romantic partner with a busy career or hectic schedule can sometimes make a person feel second best.
The old cliche about “love thyself” is some of the best advice a romantic person can get to build a better, more loving relationship. I’m not taking about vain or conceited self-love; that type of mirror-gazing doesn’t bring much to a romantic relationship. But feeling good about yourself, and being proud of yourself and the things you do, is one of the first steps we take in nurturing a healthy romance with another person.
I know, I know–reading out loud makes many people uncomfortable, and for some of us it might bring to mind embarrassing memories from high school literature classes. But the natural discomfort we feel at the thought of reading to someone is exactly why reading to each other is a great way for romantic couples to become closer and learn to trust each other.
