Hidden Opportunities to Foster Connection

When it comes to quality time, we often think we need to carve out a special spot in the day/week/month for time to focus on each other and nurture our relationship. This is partially true. Date nights and daily check ins (or some variation of them) are definitely a must-have for maintaining a strong relationship. However, there are actually hidden opportunities to foster connection already tucked throughout your day-to-day life. Here are few to get you started:

Share your dreams.


We don’t just mean your life goals and ambitions (although that’s important, too!). Whether it’s over breakfast or in those precious few minutes after you’ve woken up but before you crawl out of bed, tell each other about the dreams you had the night before, or what you can remember of them. There is something fun, yet intimate, about sharing whatever strange happenings unfolded in your brain the night before. You’ll have some laughs, and your spouse may be be able to provide insight into why your first grade teacher made an appearance. It might also lead to important conversations about sources of stress, anxiety, or other nagging issues in your lives.

Tackle a chore.


Pick that thing you’ve both been dreading and tackle it as a team. You can give each other moral support, commiserate while it’s happening, and then feel a sense of accomplishment in completing it together. It might require you to practice your communication and problem-solving skills, and if it’s particularly monotonous, you’ll have the opportunity for some good conversation as well.

Sit down to a meal.


It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Whether it’s something from the drive-through or your favorite home-cooked recipe, sitting down to eat together is a perfect time to reconnect. After all, you both have to eat – why not make that time meaningful? If meals times can be chaotic in your household due to children, busy schedules and the like, no worries. Bedtime snacks or “secret” dinner after you put the kids to bed works, too. It’s all about enjoying some sustenance while enjoying each other’s company.

Take a detour.


If you’ve got somewhere to be together and a few extra minutes, take a detour on the way or take the long way home. Crank up your favorite music or choose a song that you hold dear as a couple. If time permits, swing into an ice cream shop or local dive for a quick treat.

Get fit.


It’s not everyone’s cup of tea to workout with their spouse on a daily basis, but even doing it occasionally is a great way to keep up healthy habits while also enjoying time together. Consider taking turns introducing each other to your favorite workout routines, or try something that’s new to both of you. If you do workout together regularly, it’s like having a standing date. You might find you push yourself harder when your partner is there to cheer you on.

While these don’t replace setting aside intentional time for each other, they are a way to squeeze in extra moments of connection in our otherwise busy lives. The trick is taking full advantage of the time, even if it’s short, by being fully engaged and present with each other in those moments. What are some hidden opportunities for connection that you’ve found? Let us know in the comments!