5 Ways to Keep Your Love Life Alive During Economic Hardship

Let’s be honest, when times are difficult, when we work harder for less money, all we’re looking for is an affordable way to have fun and relax with friends and family. Barbecues are very popular during the summer and for people who live near the coasts, the beach is available at no cost. But as far as romance, the task gets a little more difficult. If you have a busy lifestyle, you know what I’m talking about. Perhaps, like many of us, you are busy rescuing your own business from the economic crash we are experiencing across the country. Add two young children and a 15 year old in the mix, and there goes your marriage! I say this with a hint of humor but, sometimes, the best we can do is laugh, relax and be grateful for what we have. And what we have is people that love each other and want to spend quality time together, no matter what the economy is like. Here are some tips to make this work.

1. Be aware of your expectations and let them go

Now, I know some of us have preset ideas of what a romantic outing should be: dinner in town, dressed up with a new sexy outfit, a few drinks or a movie. Well, the first thing to do is to let go of the “should”, forget about your expectations, and reinvent your romantic relationship. What does romance mean to you, and what is its purpose? What I have discovered is that stepping out of the routine and doing something new with my lover is enough for me to satisfy my need of romance.

2. Find out simple things you like to do

Depending on age group, hobbies range from bar hopping and dancing to going to the opera and art venues. Be practical: make a list of free or affordable hobbies. For example, pack a picnic and have dinner in nature after a bike ride. If you like photography, ask your loved one to be your model for an afternoon. Be playful! Try a new sport together. It might just be playing soccer in the backyard. Seeing each other in a new situation will help you step out of the routine and see your lover in a new light. And the list continues: have a candlelight dinner at home with soothing music, take an evening walk, read to each other, browse in a book store or garden together. Simplify, be spontaneous and adventurous.