Sticking Together: 9 Tips for How to Get Through a Rough Patch in a Relationship

Aug 7

Are you hitting a rough patch in your relationship but not ready to call it quits? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

Every relationship has its ups and downs, and hitting a rough patch is perfectly normal. When the honeymoon phase ends, getting to know each other on a deeper level can be challenging for all couples. But don't fret! There are plenty of ways to work through the tough times and come out stronger.

Here are 9 fun and helpful tips to help you and your partner navigate those rough patches:

Spend More Time Together

Life gets busy, and sometimes you don’t spend enough quality time together. Make an effort to plan dates or even just a cozy Netflix night once a week. It’s amazing how a little extra time can make a big difference.

Schedule Weekly Date Nights: Set aside a specific evening each week for a date. It could be a dinner out, a movie night at home, or even a walk in the park. The key is to make it a regular, non-negotiable part of your routine.
Digital Detox: Put away your phones and other digital devices during your time together to avoid distractions. Focus entirely on each other.
Shared Activities: Find a hobby or activity you both enjoy, whether it’s cooking, hiking, or playing board games. Shared experiences can strengthen your bond.

Identify Bad Behavior

Relationships can bring out the best and worst in us. If you or your partner are in a constant bad mood, take a step back and figure out why. Sometimes, it’s not even about the relationship itself.

Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your own behavior and emotions. Are there external stressors affecting your mood? Journaling can help you identify patterns and triggers.
Open Dialogue: Have an honest conversation with your partner about your observations and feelings. Approach it with empathy and a willingness to understand their perspective.
Professional Help: If identifying the root cause is challenging, consider seeking help from a therapist. They can provide tools and strategies to manage negative behaviors.

Hold Onto Trust

Trust is the bedrock of any relationship. Even when times are tough, maintaining trust is crucial. Whether it’s trusting that things will get better or that your partner won’t betray you, trust will keep you connected.

Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open. Share your thoughts and feelings honestly and encourage your partner to do the same.
Transparency: Be transparent about your actions and intentions. This builds a foundation of reliability and trustworthiness.
Consistent Effort: Trust is built over time through consistent actions. Show your partner that they can rely on you by following through on promises and commitments.

Remember the Good Times

It’s easy to focus on the negative during tough times. Instead, reminisce about the good times. Think about your first date, a memorable vacation, or simply the little things that made you fall in love.

Photo Albums: Create a photo album or digital slideshow of your favorite memories together. Look through it when times get tough.
Memory Jar: Start a memory jar where you both write down happy moments and read them together during difficult times.
Celebrate Milestones: Regularly celebrate anniversaries and milestones in your relationship. Reliving these moments can help reignite positive feelings.

Never Stop Loving Them

Love should be unconditional, thriving through good and bad times. Keep the love alive with small gestures like sending a sweet text or planning a surprise date. Little acts of love can reignite the flame.

Daily Affirmations: Make it a habit to express your love daily, whether it’s through a kind word, a compliment, or a loving gesture.
Surprise Gestures: Plan small surprises like their favorite snack, a heartfelt note, or a spontaneous outing to keep the excitement alive.
Physical Affection: Don’t underestimate the power of a hug, kiss, or touch. Physical affection can foster closeness and intimacy.

Listen More

Instead of always voicing your concerns, take the time to listen to your partner. Sometimes, they might have the answers or insights you need to resolve your issues.

Active Listening: Practice active listening by giving your full attention, nodding, and providing feedback. Avoid interrupting or planning your response while they are speaking.
Empathy: Try to understand your partner’s feelings and perspective. Validate their emotions and show empathy.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage deeper conversation by asking open-ended questions that allow your partner to express themselves fully.

Keep the Attraction Alive

Intimacy is key in any relationship. Even if sex isn’t on the table, physical closeness like hugging, kissing, or holding hands can strengthen your bond. Don’t underestimate the power of a warm embrace!

Physical Affection: Increase physical touch in your daily interactions, like holding hands, hugging, or cuddling.
Plan Romantic Moments: Set up a romantic evening with candles, music, and a nice meal to create a special atmosphere.
Flirt: Don’t forget to flirt with your partner. Little playful gestures and compliments can keep the spark alive.

Ask for Advice

Sometimes, friends and family can offer valuable advice and perspective. They know you and your relationship well and might provide insights you hadn’t considered.

Seek Trusted Advice: Talk to trusted friends or family members who have a healthy relationship and can offer sound advice.
Join Support Groups: Consider joining relationship support groups where you can share experiences and gain insights from others.
Professional Guidance: If needed, seek advice from a relationship counselor who can provide expert guidance tailored to your situation.

Both Need to Make It Work

A relationship is a two-way street. Both partners need to be committed to making it work. If one person isn’t putting in the effort, it won’t last. Make sure you’re both on the same page and willing to work through the rough patch together.

Mutual Commitment: Have a candid discussion about your commitment to making the relationship work. Set mutual goals and agree on the effort required from both sides.
Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss the state of your relationship, celebrate progress, and address any ongoing issues.
Team Mindset: Approach challenges as a team. Use “we” language to reinforce that you’re in this together and supporting each other.

These actionable steps can help you navigate through the rough patches in your relationship and come out stronger and more connected than ever.

You Can Repair a Rough Patch in a Relationship

Every couple faces challenges, but no relationship is perfect. With love and determination, you and your partner can overcome any rough patch. Stay positive, use these tips, and give it time. You’ll find that your bond can become even stronger.

Another great way to repair your relationship is through marriage counseling. We offer a free 15 minute consultation to answer any questions you have and make sure we are a good fit for each other. Book an appointment for marriage counseling here.

Not ready for therapy yet? Try these free conflict resolutions worksheets for couples.

Remember, you’re not alone, and every couple goes through tough times. With effort and love, you’ll get through this!