Life is about the relationships we build, the bonds we form between family, friends, and loved ones. Without these relationships, we’d be alone, isolated, and very likely depressed. We cannot function without interaction and shared experiences.
However, not every relationship that we create will go smoothly. In fact, almost all relationships will have their bumpy parts, where one side may feel unappreciated, neglected, or hurt. We are not perfect people, and neither are our relationships.
Probably one of the most difficult seasons in a relationship is when the initial spark of excitement starts to fade, and the remainder of the time begins to look dull in comparison. It’s during this period that friends start to become distant, lovers start to have their doubts, and family members can become wrapped up in their own lives.
At this crucial point, it can be tempting to just let things go the way they are, with the assumption that if it’s meant to be, it will work itself out. For the most part, that’s what people do. But, it’s also a great way to lose what could have been an amazing relationship.
Instead, I would encourage you to recognize when this is happening and do something about it. It may take a little creativity on your part, but finding ways to keep a relationship fresh, whether it’s a familial, platonic, or romantic, is what will prevent the relationship from fading away.
Go somewhere new. If you tend to go to the same places with the same people, try switching it up. You may learn something new about them that never came up before. If you always go to restaurants to meet, and instead go to a museum, you might find out that your friend is an art buff.
Revisit somewhere old. On the flip side, if you haven’t been back to a place that holds special memories in your relationship, maybe it’s time to visit again. It might be the place where you first met or had your first kiss. Or, it could be your favorite childhood stomping grounds. Any of these places can bring up fond memories that invigorate your relationship.
Discuss new topics. We talk a lot with our loved ones. We also tend to talk about the same topics each time. Whether it’s the news, sports, gadgets, tv shows, fashion, or cat videos, you could probably list all of your favorite conversation starters without too much difficulty. Instead, try to find something that one of you knows nothing about, and talk about that. While it may seem counterintuitive, talking about this topic will require a good amount of listening and asking lots of questions. However, make sure that this is something that the other person is at least vaguely interested in.
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