Over the weekend, I asked my friend, a Dating and Relationship Coach, what the biggest challenge in relationships is today.

She told me that relationships are lacking play.

People spend so much time and energy finding a relationship, maintaining and growing it, that they start to treat it like a job.

They take the relationship SO SERIOUSLY, that they forget why they are in relationship in the first place.

For connection, love, joy and shared experience.

Whether you’re in a relationship or not, I hope this email helps you bring more joy, play and fun into your experiences with romantic or platonic partners and friends.

5 ways to have more fun in relationships.

HOW TO make relationships fun

1. Be Unpredictable:

   Break the monotonous routine with spontaneous outings, adventures, and activities. Unexpected plans keep the relationship fresh, as you continue to experience things with each other for the first time.

   Example: Think picnics in the park, weekend getaways, mini-golf, rage rooms and more.

2. Keep It Simple:

   Dust off those board games, card games, or video games that you haven’t played in years. Simple, playful evenings can create unforgettable moments of joy and lots of laughter. Plus, it's a fantastic way to unplug and reconnect with each other. Invite other couples over from time to time to test your competitive edge as a couple.

3. Grow Together:

   Self-Development is important, but it’s just as important to develop as a couple. Embark on a new hobby or learn a new skill as a couple. Shared experiences strengthen your bond and give you something fresh and exciting to look forward to and enjoy together.

   Example: Cooking classes, salsa dancing or even learning a new language.

4. Nostalgic Dates:

   Nostalgia always plays and that’s especially true in relationship. Take a trip down memory lane by revisiting the places where you had meaningful moments in your relationship and re-experience them as the new version of you. Reignite the spark and remind yourself how and why you fell head over heels for each other.

5. Love Unconditionally:

   Surprise your partner with sweet, unexpected gestures. Leave little love notes, cook their favorite meal, or shower them with acknowledgements without any expectation in return.

WHY make relationships fun

Injecting fun into your relationship isn't just enjoyable—it's essential for keeping the love alive. Studies show that couples who play together, stay together.

Research published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships reveals that those who prioritize fun and playfulness are more satisfied and intimate. They're also better at weathering life’s ups and downs. On the flip side, couples who don't make time for fun risk emotional disconnect and increased conflict. The National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia found that boredom and routine can slowly kill a relationship.

Fun isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. Make your relationship a playground and see how much stronger and happier you will be.

Thanks for reading this! Please let me know how you’ve been enjoying my weekly newsletter.

Have a great day and don’t be boring,

Joel