You love your partner, and you know that they love you too.
Both of you have been together for a while now. Despite your love, things may feel a little…routine.
It isn’t anyone’s fault. In fact, it’s a sign that you two enjoy each other’s company, and have fallen into an everyday routine. Yet, in order for relationships to thrive, they need novelty!
Novelty keeps things exciting, interesting, and fun! When you share common experiences together that are novel, you build not just a stronger connection with your partner, but also a firmer foundation for a lasting relationship.
Here are five ways to enjoy something fresh and new and to boost your relationship.
Why Novelty Matters
First, let’s explore a little more about why novelty matters in relationships. One way of looking at relationships is the Self-Expansion Model. Developed by Drs. Art and Elaine Aron, this model says that humans are driven to expand who they are. The main principles include:
- Exploration
- Acquisition
- Personal Efficacy
This self-expansion occurs when you enter into a relationship. Now, who you are also includes the connection with your partner. Over time, you share similar perspectives, interests, and thoughts.
In other words, at first, just beginning the relationship was novel enough. There is the excitement, passion, and curiosity that goes with any new relationship. Remember how good that felt? Well, it’s possible to boost your relationship with novelty even though you are well established as a couple. Such novelty can keep your connection to each other strong, make things interesting, and increase the fun!
1. Cooking Together
Oftentimes, you may be advised to go out to try a new restaurant. There is nothing wrong with that advice. However, why not try cooking together at home? Cooking with your partner requires communication, a willingness to follow a plan (the recipe!), and openness to the creative process. Simply put, it’s a fun sensory experience to learn how to prepare a new dish together. If cooking is something that makes both of you nervous, try a meal preparation service. They provide all the directions and ingredients that you need to reach a delicious end!
2. Try a New Sport
Perhaps you like to play baseball and football, but your partner is really into ultimate frisbee and soccer. Do you play sports together? Have you ever considered trying something new? The great thing about this is that you each get to explore a new, physical experience at the same time. That automatically creates novelty and builds a mental and physical connection.
3. Explore Your Community
It doesn’t matter if you have lived in your community for some time or just moved in, there’s always something new to discover. For example:
- Attend a parade or festival.
- Visit a museum or art gallery.
- Shop at the local farmer’s market for fresh produce.
- Go to the annual carnival or county fair.
- View a play at the theater.
- Go to a music concert.
- Try a corn maze or escape room.
You get the idea. Your community and the surrounding area most likely have many of these adventures just waiting to be discovered. Plus, not only are you boosting your relationship, you are also getting to know your community together!
4. Creating Your Own Art
Viewing art is great, but what about creating art together? Why not attend a painting class, or make your own custom pottery? Many small businesses offer classes and workshops that provide ways to try something new and be creative at the same time. At the end of the day, you get to take your creations home. They can be a physical reminder of the experience that you both shared.
5. Boost Your Relationship: Do Something Outdoors Together!
The outdoors and nature are a great way to build novelty and boost your relationship. It’s free, a good stress reliever, and you can explore your natural surroundings. Much like exploring your community offerings, there are probably many natural opportunities in your area. They could include hiking trails, park attractions, or paddling on a lake. Pack a lunch, put on some sturdy walking shoes, and head outside!
As you can see, it’s not that hard to boost your relationship with a little novelty. With some planning, and a willingness to try something new, you can have a lifetime of adventures that strengthen your relationship. However, if you are still struggling, therapy can help. Find out today how couples counseling can support your goal to grow closer.
