How we come together in a romantic relationship is often undeniably complicated. Finding that “one true love” seems to be a mix of hope, patience, and pure luck! However, the Journal of Family Psychology has published a study showing that there are four basic categories that our commitments end up falling into once we are together. The four reasons can help us predict whether or not our relationships will last, especially during difficult times.
The data came from 1,184 American adults, all unmarried and all in relationships. Researchers discovered that three of four types of commitment are connected with higher rates of stability in relationships. The three commitment types included social pressure to stay with one another, interpersonal commitments, and material constraints (children, pets, and mortgage).
The commitment type knowns as “felt constraints” is the fourth type that is connected with a higher likelihood of splitting up. This happens when you feel as though you are trapped in a relationship that is going nowhere.
With millions of Americans working from home more frequently than normal and avoiding public places due to the coronavirus, everyone is likely feeling trapped these days. Let’s look at some relationship tips you can use to keep your loving bond strong and safe during these challenging times.
Get active together
During the pandemic, even the most committed couples often find themselves becoming bored and lethargic. The days seem to drag on one after the other, and the monotony we all feel can start to become suffocating. Getting active with one another can break up the monotony while strengthening your bond. Don’t worry if you have been sedentary for a while- get up and go for a short walk around the neighborhood to start your regimen. You can then work up to longer walks or other outdoor activities together, such as gardening or bike rides at your local trail. There will always be something you both can do together!
Your sex life won’t be normal
During the pandemic, many couples believe that their sex life will skyrocket with the downtime they find themselves in. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of stresses that can affect you or your significant other in the bedroom. Many adults have been laid off from work or have experienced cut hours. Families with children may be dealing with full-time virtual learning, a stressful situation for everyone involved. All of these issues can interfere with a person’s desire to have sex.
If you or your loved one is not as interested in sex as before, it’s important to be extra patient while keeping the lines of communication open. Everyone should be on the same page about their desires and wants.
Keep a strong support system
Too many couples only rely on themselves for support. This can become draining for the other person, so make sure you stay as connected as you can to others outside of the relationship. Talking to outside family members and friends will also give you an outsider’s look at the situation at hand. With social media thriving during the pandemic, reach out to your loved ones to give your significant other a break. Even a simple text here and there will give your loved one a rest while you vent.
Do something fun
Yes, the pandemic is still limiting what we can and can’t do. You may not even be able to head to your favorite date spots just yet! But other plans will make a lot of difference when it comes to strengthening the bonds of your relationship. You don’t have to go all out to do something fun, either! Get creative. Go for a long drive on a nice day. Plan a picnic in the park. If you have the money, buy something fun for the both of you to enjoy. The important part of this tip is to look for different ways to stay connected with one another, even small ones.
