As the holiday season wraps and the New Year begins, about 50 percent of the U.S. population sets a New Year’s resolution. But by Valentine’s Day, the vast majority calls it quits on these promises. How can you succeed? Well, making New Year’s resolutions collectively with your partner may help you commit to both the resolution and, more importantly, one another! That’s why we’re suggesting the following New Year’s resolutions for couples.
FYI: If you live in Orlando, you have a higher probably of keeping your New Year’s resolution than those who reside in most other cities in the U.S., according to WalletHub. Woohoo! So, you’ve got this and Orlando Date Night Guide is rooting for you.
As an Orlando couple, resolve to…
New Year’s Resolutions for Couples
1. Commit to a Regular Date Night in Orlando
Date night is important for all relationships. According to a study published by the University of Virginia, couples with a regular date night routine achieved higher levels of communication, sexual satisfaction and commitment. So, yes, our top New Year’s resolution for couples is committing to a regular date night.
Bottom-line: Twosomes are happier and more connected when they spend quality time together! [Pssst… that’s the driving force of Orlando Date Night Guide!] Need some date night ideas? Check out our top suggestions: “100 Orlando Date Night Ideas.”
2. Clearly Communicate with your Partner
Unless your partner is a mind-reader, your better half doesn’t always know what you’re thinking, wanting, needing, etc. Honest communication is key to a relationship. And without it, your bond will surely fade.
Some couples commit to eating dinner together every night to debrief on the day and life in general. For places to dine, just click on Orlando Date Night Guide’s EATS tab on the top of the homepage. Or, maybe upgrade an at home dinner date with recommendations from our round-up piece, “Delicious Goods from Orlando Gourmet Markets.”
Other couples schedule routine check-ins to revisit what’s happening with one another. And for that, may we suggest checking out “Unique Orlando Coffee Shops for a Low-Key Date.” Figure out what you need – whether formal or informal – and make it happen.
3. Power Down to Tune In
The best present is to be present! In today’s digital age, smartphones can be a distraction and, thus, a romance killer. A few years back, Time magazine published “How Your Smartphone is Ruining Your Relationship.” This article revealed that people who felt that their partners were overly dependent on their devices were less satisfied with their relationship. Yikes!
Recently, a friend admitted to me that, every night, she and her husband both scroll through their phones beside each other on the couch. The visual of them sitting so close literally but being so far figuratively seemed like an unfortunate (and avoidable) misstep. They’re tuned into their electronics and not into each other. OK, I get that, on some days, you just want to relax and skim social (self included), but that shouldn’t replace more meaningful engagement on a daily basis with your most important ‘friend.’
Make an effort to power down to up your connection. At-home date nights are the perfect alternative, like chatting over a charcuterie board and wine. Click over to our article, “The Best Wine Bars in Orlando,” to explore places to pick up a bottle of wine in Orlando.
4. Break Bad Habits
If you’re interested in setting a traditional New Year’s resolution, such as eating better or exercising more, ask your partner to be part of the plan. You are more likely to succeed if you’re on the same page; plus, telling your love that you want him/her/their to be healthy is a win too, right?
Commit to making nutrient-dense meals together at home, as well as dining at healthier eateries. Check out our list of “10 Plant-Based Restaurants in Orlando Everyone Will Love” or “25 Most Delicious Gluten-Free Restaurants in Orlando.”
If you think your partner is a great gym buddy, you’ll love the recommendations featured in “5 Paired Up Workout Dates for Active Couples.” Plus, you can have fun burning calories far from the gym. Think date night recreation, like taking a bike ride, going for a scenic hike or strolling arm-and-arm at the farmers market to stock up on fresh produce.
5. Become Penny Pinchers
Saving for date night or a couples getaway can be challenging. Each week, toss extra change or dollar bills into your date night jar to have at the ready. Sure, it may not cover all expenses but it’ll help, right?
And, of course, “70+ Free Things To Do in Orlando” is our trusted freebie guide for priceless date night shenanigans.
6. Fight Fair
Disagreements are normal. But be sure to fight fair. During an argument, stick to the issue at hand and don’t bring up irrelevant problems from the past. They won’t help resolve the present conflict and could even make your scuffle escalate.
7. Say You’re Sorry
So… you want to be right. Yes… but at what cost? You don’t always have to fold, of course, but think about what you really gain from being the tough one that never compromises.
I’ve tried to step up my game with apologies. The words “I’m sorry” are powerful. Yes, it can be challenging to swallow your pride and vocalize those two small words, but the end result can be big time for your relationship.
8. Be OK with PDA
No, you don’t need to engage in full-on make-out sessions all the time when out and about in Orlando. But physical contact is impactful. Squeeze his hand, kiss her forehand, rub their back and snag other tender touches often.
9. Make Time for Yourselves
You’re not single, but it’s still totally fine to crave independence when needed. Perhaps that personal investment may help your relationship too. For example, I schedule solo runs to benefit my mind, body and soul. Missing it can make me cranky and, as a result, my overall mood affects my partner.
If and when you need a smidge of alone time, Orlando Date Night Guide has got you covered with “Date Yourself First: 8 Solo Date Ideas in Orlando.”
10. Support Self-Care (Together)
Stress from outside sources, such as work demands, financial strain, parenting responsibilities, etc., often spill over. Couples often bring that nervous system tension home, accidentally projecting frustration and stress onto their partner. Couples who prioritize self-care, including self-care done together, can help one another manage and even lessen stress.
Click over to “30 Self-Care Ideas for Orlando Area Couples“ to dive into self-care together.
11. Listen Intently
Sometimes people just want to be heard. In an argument, for example, I don’t necessarily need my partner to agree with me or change his opinion to match mine. But I do appreciate him hearing me out and, when possible, acknowledging that he can see my point (even if he feels differently).
Also, when I’m venting, I don’t necessarily want my partner to solve my problems but rather listen and validate feelings. Every now and then I just need to let it all out and have my honey withhold his gut reaction to offer a quick fix. Don’t you agree? The act of listening is meaningful.
12. Write Love Notes
Actions speak louder than words, but the written word does speak volumes. Stash simple but sweet love memos in unexpected places. For example, stick a note in her shoe that says, “I can’t wait to take the next step with you” or, beside his watch, leave “I love spending time with you.” If you prefer to text, send unsolicited compliments like “You are the best kisser!”
Happy New Year to you and your love!
