1. Start “dating” again

It’s easy for couples to become disconnected from one another when they don’t spend quality time together anymore. Make it a point to “date” your partner at least once a week. It can be as simple as sitting in the car talking and listening to music.

2. Make your relationship a priority

When a couple’s been together for a while, sometimes the honeymoon phase wears off and the relationship becomes more transaction-like. It’s easy to fall into business-like exchanges — bills, chores, home repairs, and childcare — and that can take quite a toll on a relationship.

3. Let go of expectations

Many people in relationships have expectations about what their partner “should” be doing, whether it’s about chores, exercise, work, or communication. Unfortunately, your partner isn’t a mind reader, so if you have a need or request, asking them for help is critical.

4. Plan a weekly meeting

Every household has to deal with the monotonous duties of running a house. Chores, repairs, cleaning, finance, and childcare can all add up. Setting up a weekly meeting for you and your partner can be a good way to go over all those responsibilities, appointments, and chores for the upcoming week.

5. Say thank you

While it might feel a little weird initially, try to say thank you, even for the little things. We can all be found guilty of taking a partner for granted after being together for a while. Thanking them for big and small things is an excellent way to show appreciation. Especially if they’ve done something big, like leave work early to take the dog to the vet. It can go a long way to say something like “I know how busy you are at work, so I really appreciate you rearranging your schedule to help out.”