Mark Travers, PhD, a psychologist who specializes in relationship science, has identified five bad habits to blame. These are the habits of the happiest couples that thrive on the weekends. As the Chief Psychologist at Awake Therapy, Steve specializes in giving romantic relationships more intentional and quality time together. This telehealth company focuses on providing psychotherapy, counseling, and relationship coaching online to help maintain and strengthen these relationships.
Her advice arrives just in time as millions of Americans, especially couples, are figuring out how to foster today’s modern relationship. As work-life balance continues to get more difficult, it will be especially important to know how to improve relationship satisfaction. Forged in the fires of relational mundanity, weekend routines are rarely given much thought, let alone intentional focus.
According to Dr. Travers, couples who make time for the things they both enjoy doing on the weekends are more likely to be happy and satisfied in their relationships. He points out that these practices open up moments of relational healing and release the medicine of community care. The five habits he points out as keys to a lifelong partnership are communication, shared interests, time together, personal self-care, and mutual purpose.
Clear communication is essential to any strong relationship. Dr. Travers observes that the couples who have open conversations with each other about their feelings and experiences create more meaningful connections. “I love you, but I need to love me for an hour or two. Let’s do it together,” he states. This quote perfectly summarizes the tension every couple must navigate between connectedness and separateness.
Dr. Travers’ third healthy habit is to regularly enjoy activities together. Spending time enjoying shared activities Couples who spend time being active together tend to feel more connected and satisfied by the memories they create together. Whether it’s cooking a meal together, exploring the outdoors, or taking a class, meaningful opportunities can help relationships grow. These positive experiences build interpersonal trust increasing relationship satisfaction exponentially.
Undivided, distraction-free time together is just as crucial. Dr. Travers suggests that couples make it purposeful and set aside time every weekend to reconnect just the two of you. This can range from regular date nights, strolls through the local park, or dinnertime conversation while the kids are occupied with other activities. By making this time a priority, couples strengthen their emotional bond.
Beyond those communal experiences, Dr. Travers wants those in shared spaces to prioritize self-care. Prioritizing time to do what you love, relax and replenish your spirit increases overall health and happiness. Beyond that, it recharges the emotional spark in your relationship. Couples that respect and encourage each partner’s desire for autonomy flourish.
Joint goal setting is another habit that emotionally intelligent couples tend to share. When a partnership articulates their vision and dreams, they instill an important feeling of collaboration. Valuing and supporting one another’s dreams strengthens their investment in the partnership. This joint perspective makes their relationship that much stronger and helps the couple align their separate goals with their newfound vision guidance.
Dr. Travers’ research highlights how essential these weekend routines are to creating more joyful partnerships. And he’s personally walking clients through Awake Therapy’s platform. His interviews turn into an incredible resource for anyone who wants to deepen their bond with their partner.
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