I popped into Washington DC twice last month and collected some important lessons along the way including insights from couples on how they prioritize their relationships in the context of a busy lifestyle that includes running a business and raising kids:
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1. Micro-dates & day-dates. One couple shared that they plan short dates instead of traditional date-nights. Since they’re lower pressure, they’re more likely to follow through and actually spend quality time together over a coffee or on a short walk. And the more they do it, the more it becomes a habit as opposed to an exception.
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2. Parent-pauses. Another couple shared (and the group concurred) that in addition to lacking time alone as a couple after having kids, they also miss spending time apart (e.g. with friends or pursuing hobbies). Their solution: they each plan a parent-pause for the other monthly: post-work drinks with a friend, a dance class, tickets to a show, an online workshop, etc. (while the planner manages the kids).
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It’s often a surprise, which creates space for creativity and anticipation alongside pleasure outside of their roles and parents and partners.
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3. Quickies. Marathons aren’t always better than sprints (even if the former are more likely to be posted on social media). One couple explained, ““We’re busy, so sometimes we just rush it when we’re not in the mood. And we’re always so glad we did.”
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