I often hear from and read about couples that simply cannot find alone time for themselves individually, as a couple, or both. With the demands of family, home, work, and outside activities, they are simply exhausted at the end of the day.
Here are some tips for making a little self-time or couple-time:
Soccer Mom Syndrome
Moms and Dads who feel like they spend every spare moment in the car running the kids to and fro, often feel like they have not time for themselves or each other. I’ve been there, done that, and I should have at least one t-shirt. While I’m waiting for one or more children to pick them up from sports or other activities, I often think about my husband. Sometimes, he’ll ride along with me so we can enjoy that little bit of time together. Other times, I’ll call and talk on the way or while I’m waiting.
Learn to Say No
It is okay to say no once in a while to all those extras. Sure, you want to help out when family members, friends, or teachers ask, but it can quickly lead to over-extending yourself. When this happens, it’s more stress, one more chore, instead of a cheerful gift of your time. Sometimes, you just have to set a limit. One mom says that she has no fewer than 10 requests for her time in any given week. My suggestion would be to decline at least one of those requests, if not one of every five.
Stay up Late
I know some of you are probably groaning at this suggestion, thinking you don’t get enough sleep the way it is. Still, staying up late one night per week, or even every couple of weeks, will give you time to enjoy yourself or each other during the still hours while the children are sleeping. It helps if you can do this when you don’t have to be up early the next morning, but even if you do, you can simply lie in bed or on the couch and chat, listen to music, or watch TV, so you’re still getting some rest while enjoying that extra downtime.
Making Time for Your Marriage: Couple Time