Although marriage is a gift, we all know how difficult it is with daily responsibilities, stress, and routines, children (teenagers, wow), aging parents, and jobs. It is easy for couples to lose sight of one of the most vital ingredients for a thriving relationship: fun. Laughter and joy strenghtens the bond between us, and lets face it, who doesn't love to laugh? Here are some things we have found inject fun into your marriage when we are in a dry spell.
1. Rediscover Shared Interests
One of the simplest ways to reignite fun in a marriage is to revisit activities that you both enjoy. Whether it's hiking, a sport like pickleball (super popular these days!) or golf, playing board games, cooking together, or attending a dance class, shared hobbies provide opportunities for laughter and connection. These can help you create new memories and lighten the load.
Tips for Rediscovering Shared Interests:
Make a list (Use our State of the Union): sit down together and list activities you both used to enjoy or are interested in trying. This can include old favorites and new adventures.
Schedule weekly dates (can't do weekly, do it twice a month): carve out time in your schedules to engage in these activities regularly. Whether it’s a weekly board game night or monthly hiking trips, consistency is key.
Be open to new experiences: sometimes, trying something new together can be incredibly fun and rewarding. Take turns choosing new activities to explore. She likes sports but you don't? He wants to go to the game? Just go back to being agreeable with one another and try it.
2. Laugh and seek laughter
Being able to laugh often togehter and at yourself is an actual skill in any marriage. It eases tension and prevents conflicts from escalating. When you make a mistake or do something silly, laugh about it with your partner. Seek out comedy and fun and funny takes and movies. This not only shows humility but also makes it easier for your spouse to do the same, fostering an environment where laughter is a natural response to life’s little mishaps. Being open to humor changes our demeanor. After all, God is a fun-loving God, who enjoys us. We should enjoy each other!
How to Cultivate Laughter:
Share embarrassing moments: open up about funny or embarrassing moments from your past. This not only brings laughter but also builds intimacy.
Don't take things too seriously: life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Approach these moments with a light heart and a sense of humor.
Watch comedies together: choose movies or TV shows that make you both laugh.
3. Prioritize Time Together
Life can be incredibly busy, but prioritizing time together is essential for injecting fun into your marriage. Schedule regular date nights, weekend activities, or even daily check-ins where you can relax and enjoy each other’s company. Quality time allows for organic moments of laughter and fun to arise naturally.
Ways to Prioritize Time Together:
Weekly date nights: set aside one night a week for just the two of you. It doesn’t have to be elaborate – even a quiet dinner at home can be special.
Daily check-ins: spend a few minutes each day catching up with each other. Share your highs and lows, and just be present for one another.
Weekend adventures: plan small weekend getaways. Stay at a hotel in your city or within 3 hours of you. Exploring new places together will also create lasting memories.
We hope these pracitcal tips work for you to add fun into your week with your spouse!