Nobody tells you how you are going to feel when a baby comes into your life. There is no denying that a baby will change the dynamics of your whole life, but the one thing many overlook is the impact it can have on your relationship or marriage. The truth is, you become so overwhelmed by parenthood that it becomes your number one priority. Nothing wrong with that. But in the same breath, you need to ensure that as a couple you are also taking care of your relationship. Nobody intends for it to end unless there is no other option. However, there are ways you can try and ensure you go the distance, here are some of the things you could try.
Date nights and quality time together
One of the obvious ways couples can reconnect is to enjoy quality time together. It may seem like at the end of the day you just want to collapse in a heap on the bed and sleep; sometimes it is worth the effort to reconnect when you do have the time. Date nights are a great way to do this. An organized time when you know there is no other distraction, and your little ones are taken care of. A simple meal out, a coffee date during the day, a trip to the cinema, these can all be things that you can do on a regular basis and can help you reconnect. This is when looking into child care can help you to have the time to do this. If you don’t have the time to go out, making time indoors can also be fun. Cooking special meals, having an evening of no technology, or just taking an early night.
Admitting there is a problem
The hardest thing any couple can do is admit there is a problem. But sometimes that can be the best way to take positive steps forward. Admitting you have a problem doesn’t necessarily mean you are heading for divorce and calling an attorney, although speaking to someone professional could help you see things more clearly. It does mean that you can start to talk about the issues you have and begin to resolve them.
Communicating on a daily basis
Good old-fashioned communication can often be the best medicine when it comes to resolving conflict or hidden emotions. Simple things like asking how each other’s day was. Talking about what you want to do in the future and sharing your hopes and fears. Communication can open you up and help you to deal with things, perhaps things that you didn’t even know were bubbling under the surface.
Sharing the load
Finally, one big problem parents have, especially when they are new to it, is the workload. Simply put, who does all of the night feeds? Who takes care of the house? If you feel like one of you is doing more than your fair share then this could be causing hostile emotions between the two of you. Try and balance things out as best you can, or better still be proactive and help where you can. It could make the world of difference.
Let’s hope that some of these options help strengthen your relationship now you are parents.