Picture this: You and your significant other have been dating for quite some time, with sparks flying everywhere. To take it a step further, you decide to move in, only to realise that the romance has dwindled. But before you question your relationship or worse, call it quits due to lack of romance, know that it’s not your or your partner’s fault. When you spend all your time together, the mystery that adds sexiness and romance to your relationship dissipates. Meaning you have to make extra efforts to keep the spark alive—after all, seeing them in sweats day in and day out doesn’t exactly bring sexy thoughts to your mind, does it? With these steps, you can make sure that nothing will come in the way of the sizzling chemistry between you two.
Plan intentional dates—and get ready for them separately
As a ‘stay at home and cuddle’ person, I know getting all dolled up and going out for a date when you can just stay in and watch the latest show on Netflix can seem a little cumbersome. But, to keep that romance alive, you need to step out and go on cute little dates as a couple, just like you used to do before moving in. Schedule date nights where you both can dress up and go out to do something fun, and it doesn’t need to be fancy. It could be something as simple as going bowling, or going for a late-night ice cream run. And try to get ready separately for those proper dinner dates—it has an element of surprise that will make you feel like you’re on your first date! Both of you have seen enough of each other in ratty over-sized tees and pyjamas, so it’s nice to whip out that sexy outfit and make an effort once in a while.
Say yes to scheduling sex
We know, we know, just the thought of scheduling something like sex seems anti-climactic? After all, isn’t the hottest, best sex always spontaneous? But when you’re living together, you fall into a kind of routine that can dim romance in your relationship, leading you two to live your life like roommates. To avoid that, stop pushing sex until later, and try to have a conversation with your partner about how regularly you both are comfortable having sex. This way, there will be room for anticipation when the time comes, and you can start early by sending each other dirty messages throughout the day to build the mood even further.
Maintain your own sense of self
It’s easy to get swept up in a relationship, especially when you’ve moved in together and you spend all your free time with your partner. But don’t make them, or your relationship, your entire life. It’s important for both of you to have interests and hobbies outside of the relationship, and it’s equally important to pursue them without involving your partner. This could mean hanging out with your friends, going on solo dates, and doing something you like—like pottery lessons or dance classes. As they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder, and this time apart will add to the mystery in your relationship and keep the spark alive. It will also make your partner miss you more and appreciate the time you do spend together.
Routine is nice, but spontaneity can up the romance
When two people start living together, a routine is key to avoid conflict—you need to divide chores, decide who gets to shower first, figure out who gets to watch the TV at a particular time, and more. But these mundane tasks and conversations can sometimes leave no room for spontaneity, where romance thrives. So, sometimes it’s okay to throw your daily plans and routines out the window and embrace surprises. Go on a last-minute date, have a quickie before work, gift him flowers, or let him surprise you with a fancy dinner at home. The possibilities are endless!