Give space in your relationship

Respect your partner's personal space in your relationship. Spending time apart to do things for yourself can help your relationship grow...

The focus in a relationship starts shifting from me to 'we' once it starts getting serious. Instead of planning what you're going to do, you start planning what 'we're' going to do. While nothing is wrong with this, it can overshadow the need to spend some quality time alone as well.

Having said that, spending time independently of each other is a healthy way to make your relationship grow. Everyone needs a little personal space, and it's a huge sign of respect towards your partner when you encourage and support their time alone.

Set aside at least one hour each week for each of you to spend time completely alone where you won't need to worry about any responsibilities. The point is for the other partner to take care of anything that needs attention during the other's personal time.

Try to surprise your partner with a least a half hour of free time. It will make your partner feel good that you are making time despite your busy schedule. For instance, tell him you're taking the kids out to a movie and he's to enjoying playing computer games all night. For her, plan a take-out dinner, then take the kids out for ice cream and a treat, while she gets to enjoy an uninterrupted bubble bath by candlelight.

Sometimes a partner can get his work home and spend too much time on a project. Agree to a set amount of time on the project each week. In exchange, they have to offer you that same amount of time to do either something on your own, or together.

Every couple of months let your partner have an all personal day. Arrange for them to do the activity they love most, without guilt or interruption for an entire day. While you may be giving up a day spent with your partner, the appreciation for respecting their personal space will more than make for the time apart.

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