If you work at it, you may just come out in a better place with your partner than a few weeks ago. Here’s some serious expert advice for people who are not used to 24/7 time together that may just help to keep the quarantine jitters under wraps.
1. Do something small
Try to go out of your way to do little things. Go for a walk. Order in your partners favourite. Give them some alone time so that they can just de-stress or talk to friends on their own. Mend something. Tidy up an area that they’ve been putting off for a while. Share some funnies.
2. Look after yourself
Yes salons, beauty spas and cleaners are shut down so you’re bound to feel a little mess and out of sorts. Remember, life is much easier when you’re clean, tidy and well groomed. Get out of your pj’s, wash your hair, shave and put on a clean shirt. You’ll be all that much more appealing.
3. Distract yourself
Pick up a book or watch a movie that you haven’t otherwise had the time to do. Head outside for some much-needed vitamin D and a change of scenery, or take this time to start an exercise routine. Call a friend and catch up.
4. Don’t blame or get annoyed
It’s a stressful time, roller coaster of a time but we’re all in the same boat. Avoid pressuring or complaining. Life will be tough and some decisions may be difficult. Taking it out on partners or kids will only create more problems. Keep doing the things that bring you joy, together.
5. Change your expectations
Go slowly and realize that you are going to be working at this “living in the same space” thing for a while. Stay tidy and organized yourself. Don’t nag. Be helpful and cheerful. Remember everyone deals with a crisis in a different way. This is your chance to shine.
6. Try to talk it out
Communicating your needs to your partner is the best way to stave off conflict. Think before you blurt. Book a time to resolve issues and don’t do everything at once. Make a list and tackle things one by one at different times. After all, none of you are going anywhere so you may have time to spare.
7. Say thank you
Don’t take things for granted. Say thank you even for little things and remember to talk about good times and future ideas. Share memories and photos of better times. Talk to positive people and work at staying up.
Lessons to take-away
No matter who you are or how much you love each other, you’re going to run into some bumps in the road. Don’t blame, stay flexible and try to remember all the reasons you came together in the first place. This won’t last forever and you want to make sure that you invest enough effort to come out of this difficult time in a good space, emotionally, physically and relationship wise.
