When working with couples, I often come across the fact that part of the relational struggles stem from the fact that the couple has forgotten to nurture their friendship. Couples get wrapped up in the functional aspects of the relationship; the business of raising a family and maintaining a household. Making time for connections outside of these roles can become challenging. When we become good co-parents and business partners, but starve the emotional connections of our relationship, we are at risk for foundational breakdown. Relationships need a foundation of emotional safety and trust in order to thrive. By making time to connect as friends and lovers, we provide the proper environment for emotional connections to be cultivated.

When was the last time you and your partner spent some quality time together? Pull out a board game or go on a walk together; share a laugh or a personal struggle. Building a strong foundation of emotional safety and trust doesn’t require a lot of time. Connecting as friends is a great way to cultivate the environment that breeds emotional connection.