Reclaiming Connection: Prioritizing your Spouse Amidst Life’s Chaos

In the whirlwind of life, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind. Work deadlines, children's schedules, household chores - they all demand our attention. But amidst this chaos, one crucial relationship often gets pushed to the back burner: the one with our spouse. Neglecting this connection can lead to distance, resentment, and a feeling of living parallel lives. Let's dive into why prioritizing quality time with your spouse is not just important, but essential.

Why Quality Time Matters

Quality time isn't just about being in the same room. It's about intentional connection, focused attention, and creating shared experiences that strengthen your bond. This requires putting all screens away for a period of time. Turn your phone and Ipad on “Do not disturb” if you have people that NEED to be able to ring through, prioritize them in your settings and never miss their call. 

Your spouse needs to know and feel that they are your #1. You can’t help them feel that way when you are distracted during the small amount of alone time that the two of your create for one another. 

Emotional Intimacy

When you dedicate quality time, you create a safe space for open communication and vulnerability. This fosters emotional intimacy, allowing you both to share your thoughts, feelings, and dreams. It is common that after not having deep and open conversations with your spouse that it becomes difficult and you don’t know what to talk about. Don’t stress. Grab a deck of communication cards and use them as a tool to get the conversation flowing. You can purchase Sweet Honey and Sacrifice Connection Cards on the website at sweethoneycoaching.com/shop

Strengthening the Bond

Shared experiences create lasting memories and a sense of "us." Whether it's a quiet evening at home or an adventurous getaway, these moments solidify your bond and remind you of why you chose each other. DATE NIGHTS are the best nights of the month. You can play games, dance, bake, exercise, do a puzzle, go for a walk and share your favorite snacks for at home date nights. You can go to dinner, movies, a play, bowling, ice skating, ax throwing, etc if you want a night out. 

Time together is irreplaceable. Call grandma if you have kids, get a sitter, set up date night at home when the kids are in bed. Make no excuses for creating time with one another. I know that you are tired, I know that it’s hard and that you aren’t always in the mood, BUT if you don’t make time for one another, your marriage will suffer, you will suffer and your home life will become something you never wanted. Time together is glue! 

Stress Reduction

Connecting with your spouse can be a powerful stress reliever. Talking about your day, sharing a laugh, or simply enjoying each other's company can help you both unwind and recharge. Sexual release is also a stress reducer. Are you making the time to share intimacy with your spouse? Are you leaving enough time to make sure that BOTH of your needs are being met. Sexual intimacy with your spouse should be fun, exciting, comforting, relaxing, energizing, intimate, special and so much more. Not all at once usually but a combination of. Talk about your sex life in order to make it everything you both want it to be! 

Modeling Healthy Relationships

If you have children, prioritizing your relationship with your spouse sets a powerful example. It shows them what a loving, supportive partnership looks like. Children feel more secure when they know that Mom and Dad are happy and love one another. They experience less worry and anxiety as well. When we talk about putting your spouse before your children, many people misinterpret that and get upset. We aren’t saying to neglect your children's needs. It is your responsibility to take care of them. However, we are talking about telling little Jane “no” because you and your spouse already have plans. It can mean putting them to bed a little bit early so that you can have an at home date night. It is prioritizing your marriage relationship in order to strengthen your family's relationship. 

Practical Tips for Prioritizing Quality Time

Finding time can feel challenging, but with a little creativity and commitment, it's achievable.

Schedule "Date Nights"

Make date nights a non-negotiable part of your routine. It doesn't have to be extravagant; it just needs to be intentional.

Unplug and Connect

Put away your phones and other distractions. Give your spouse your undivided attention.

Find Shared Hobbies

Discover activities you both enjoy and make time to do them together. It could be anything from hiking to cooking to playing board

games.

Daily Check-ins

Take a few minutes each day to connect. Ask about each other's day, share something you're grateful for, or simply say "I love you." (set a timer if you need to while you create this new habit)

Plan Getaways

Even a short weekend trip can do wonders for your connection. It provides a change of scenery and an opportunity to focus on each other.

The Long-Term Benefits

Investing in your relationship with your spouse pays off in the long run.

Increased Happiness

Strong relationships are a key ingredient to overall happiness and well-being.

Better Communication

Regular quality time improves communication, making it easier to navigate challenges and resolve conflicts.

Lasting Love

Prioritizing your spouse keeps the spark alive and ensures your love continues to grow and deepen over time.

Conclusion

In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. But remember, your relationship with your spouse is the foundation of your family and your life. By making a conscious effort to prioritize quality time, you can strengthen your bond, reduce stress, and create a lifetime of love and happiness.