It is undeniable that we all desire a connection that goes beyond romance. We yearn for a partner who can be both our lover and our best friend. Someone who can be a confidant, a companion, and with whom we can have fun and share adventures. It’s about having a bond that feels like a beautiful friendship.
However, sometimes, amidst the ups and downs of life, we can lose sight of that special friendship we once had with our spouse. Responsibilities, routines, and the passing of time can take their toll. But fear not, for within every relationship lies the potential to revive that cherished friendship and reignite the flame.
To become friends with your spouse again is to embark on a transformative journey; one that requires introspection and action. It is important though to be careful not to make your romantic relationship or marriage suddenly feel like nothing but a friendship. Most people don’t want that either! But having a soulmate who can love and cherish us, while still being our best friend and partner in crime is something we can only wish for! And that’s exactly what we will try to teach you in this article, so here are 5 steps to make your significant other into your best friend.
5 steps to turn your spouse into your best friend:
1. Initiate open and honest communication:
The first step in rekindling a friendship with your spouse is to initiate open and honest communication. Communication forms the foundation of any successful relationship, and by creating a safe space for open dialogue, you can begin to rebuild the connection between you and your partner.
Sit down together, free from distractions, and express your desire to revive the friendship that once thrived between you. Share your feelings, concerns, and hopes for the future, and encourage your spouse to do the same. There’s no reason to work extra shifts in silence and in secret to try to come closer to someone who’s oblivious to that. If you want to become your spouse’s closest friend then why not start by sharing this wish with them? They’ll probably think it’s the most thoughtful thing ever and they’ll try and meet you halfway.
By fostering a genuine and understanding conversation, you lay the groundwork for the subsequent steps in your journey to reconnect as friends.
2. Reconnect through shared activities and interests:
The second step involves reconnecting through shared activities and interests. Find common hobbies or interests that both you and your spouse enjoy or explore new ones together.
Plan outings, whether it’s a simple walk in the park, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway. Engaging in activities together fosters a sense of camaraderie and creates opportunities for laughter, fun, and quality time.
By actively participating in shared experiences, you strengthen the bond of friendship and create lasting memories that will help rekindle the connection between you and your spouse. Remember, it’s the shared moments of joy and adventure that often bring people closer together.
3. Practice empathy and try to see things from your spouse’s perspective:
The third step involves practicing empathy and understanding towards your spouse. Put yourself in their shoes and strive to see things from their perspective. Show genuine interest in their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If you pretend to care and don’t actually want to make the effort of trying to relate with them and understand their thinking regarding different topics and matters then they may be able to see through that.
Instead, try to actively listen when they speak, and validate their emotions. Avoid judgment or criticism, and instead, offer support and encouragement. For instance, if your partner is crying over the neighbor’s kitten that died and you cannot seem to comprehend them; try harder. By doing this often, you will probably end up understanding how their mind works and getting along with them a lot easier than before.
By practicing empathy, you create a safe and nurturing environment that allows your spouse to open up and feel heard. This deepens the friendship by fostering a sense of trust and understanding, laying the groundwork for a stronger emotional connection. Remember, true friendship is built on mutual respect and empathy for one another.
4. Prioritize quality time together:
The fourth step involves prioritizing quality time together. In the midst of busy schedules and daily responsibilities, it’s important to carve out dedicated time for each other.
So why not set aside regular date nights or designated periods where you can focus solely on nurturing your friendship? So try and engage in activities that facilitate meaningful conversations, such as taking a stroll, cooking together, or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Disconnect from distractions like phones and television, and truly be present in each other’s company.
Quality time allows you to deepen your connection, strengthen the bond of friendship, and create lasting memories. By making your relationship a priority, you demonstrate your commitment to rebuilding the friendship with your spouse.
5. Be more expressive and grateful for them:
The fifth step involves expressing appreciation and gratitude towards your spouse. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the positive qualities and actions that you admire in them. Show gratitude for the little things they do that make a difference in your life.
Expressing appreciation not only strengthens the bond between you but also fosters a positive and nurturing environment. It reminds both of you of the value you bring to each other’s lives and reinforces the friendship you are rebuilding. Whether through verbal affirmation, handwritten notes, or small gestures of kindness, let your spouse know that you cherish and appreciate their presence in your life.
By cultivating an atmosphere of gratitude, you create a foundation of love and friendship that continues to grow and flourish.
Conclusion:
In the pursuit of rekindling friendship with your spouse, it is essential to strike a delicate balance between friendship and intimacy. While cultivating a strong friendship forms the bedrock of a healthy relationship, it is equally important to nurture and prioritize intimacy. Neglecting this aspect can lead to a relationship where passion fades, and the connection becomes solely platonic.
Intimacy encompasses physical closeness, emotional vulnerability, and a deep sense of connection. It is through intimacy that the romantic flame continues to burn brightly, adding depth and richness to the friendship you share. So don’t forget to allow yourself to express love, desire, and affection, because it will foster a sense of closeness and bring a unique dimension to your relationship.