With all of the responsibilities life can bring, like kids, jobs and bills, it gets harder for couples to spend quality time together. Some couples go weeks or even months without going on a date; so when they finally do, it’s more than a date – it’s like an Olympic event!
A 2012 report released by the National Marriage Project found that couples who devote time to one another on a weekly basis are more likely to enjoy high quality relationships and lower divorce rates than couples that do not. Their findings identified communication, novelty, eros, commitment, and de-stressing as the benefits of having regular date nights. You can read the complete report here.
Because we know that you may not have the time or resources to plan elaborate dates on a weekly basis, below are four easy tips for busy couples to build stronger marriages through dating.
Make the Time
Whether you both work full time outside the home or one of you stays home, it can feel nearly impossible to find the time (or energy) to go out on a date at the end of the week. The truth is, you’ll never find the time — you have to make the time. Break out your calendars at the start of every month and set your date night(s) in advance. This will give you something to look forward to and allows for plenty of time to find something fun and creative to do.
Use Your Phone
There are several smartphone applications you can use to design the perfect date. If you need new restaurant ideas, check out Yelp. Want to know what movies are playing this weekend? Use Fandango to check times and purchase tickets. Planning a weekend get-away? Trip Advisor has everything you need. You always have your phone in your hand anyway, so why not use it to help strengthen your marriage? All of these apps have websites as well, in case you don’t have a smart phone.
Ask for Help
When the time comes for you to spend a night out of the house and away from the kids, you need someone to turn to for help. Calling on friends or family, a church family, or at the very least, a reliable babysitter is a must-do for couples. It is essential for every couple to have a network of people around them that are willing to support their marriage by watching the kids from time to time.
Keep it Fun
Dinner and movie can be a complete date night snooze-fest after a while. Get out of your usual routine and try fun things like going to an amusement park, visiting a wax museum or go-kart racing! The idea is not just spend time together, but to create new experiences for you both to enjoy and look back on. Never underestimate the power of a good board or card game, too! Use date night as a time to connect and grow with your spouse. Create experiences that fit your time and budget.
There’s nothing better than setting aside quality time to spend with your best friend. Date night is something that married couples should cherish, because it’s a sign of a healthy and happy marriage.
Tell us BMWK family: What’s your favorite date night idea?