Are Relationships Worth It? Why Having A Romantic Partner Can Be Good For You

Long-term relationships generally rely on the efforts of both partners to be successful. The element of romance can be a significant contributing factor to a relationship’s romantic success. It can be created by establishing a personal bond that grows over time, keeping relationships alive and exciting for most. 

Many find that romantic relationships are worth the effort when you find someone that makes you feel good about yourself with mutual feelings for each other. Below, we’re defining what romance can be to people. We’ll also be exploring different ways that you can rekindle the romance in your relationship.

Romance can be important in relationships

Some may not know how to define romance in words, but they might know romance on a different level — through action — showing  their partner that they care about them in specific, tangible ways. 

We do want to note: Many healthy and happy relationships will have romance. However, those who identify as other genders or sexual orientations (I.e., aromantic or asexual) may have different experiences. Before we dive into the nuances of romance, we do want to note that all levels of attraction (either sexually or otherwise) can be a normal part of certain people’s relationships.

How to define romance

If you ask someone what romance is, you may get different responses. After all — you can be romantic in different ways, and people may have personal thoughts on what they think it means. Relationship experts generally agree that romance can include any of the following:

• Actions that show love, affection, thoughtfulness or adoration
• Actions or activities to enhance joy, happiness and personal connection
• Actions or activities that show class, high living or elegance
• Actions that bring a couple closer together with attentiveness and deep admiration

Any size or type of action, romantic or otherwise, holds the potential to make a significant impact on a relationship. When two people have a unique connection, romance, attraction or a sense of intimate partnership might be a regular part of their relationship. However, every relationship is usually a very individual experience. You may be empowered learn what works and what doesn't — and when you learn what does, you can lean into these actions and feelings to keep supporting your relationship. 

Ways to kindle romance in relationships

It can be normal for people to wonder how to be romantic in a relationship. For example: A person may struggle with being romantic if they don't know what their partner likes, or if they are unsure how to express their adoration. We’ve put together a list of suggestions that may help you to rekindle the romantic feelings in your relationship:

• Create bonding experiences to get closer to your partner. The experiences can be anything, including gift-giving, intimacy, affection and meaningful conversation. A good laugh or reminiscing, for example, can be a great way to bond as a couple.
• Make romance fun by incorporating fun activities. Think about activities you both like to do together or consider trying something different. Activities like going to a party, movie or game can make time spent together joyful and memorable.
• Have a good sense of humor. A sense of humor is always an interesting twist in a relationship. Many find it romantic when their partner makes them laugh. From corny jokes to greeting cards, there are creative and thoughtful ways to have a humorous moment.
• Reflect on your past as a couple. Memories of being together may not only bring you closer, but they can also remind each partner why they enjoy being together. Memories likely include a variety of emotions, from an embarrassing moment to recalling your first kiss. Consider going through old photos or revisiting the place you first met. Talking about your memories keeps personal feelings for each other fresh and may enhance your bond.
• Express your feelings. As you engage in different activities as a couple, consider letting your partner know how you feel. Being vulnerable and honest with your partner can provide you both with a higher level of intimacy.
• Be spontaneous by adding adventure to your routine. As a couple, it can be fun to do something new or out of the ordinary. Try exploring a new hobby together, such as going hiking, rock climbing, or whatever you consider to be an adventure. Doing this can be a way to get to know each other on a deeper level, and may allow you to learn something surprising or fun about the other that can add to your romantic experience.
• Be respectful and appreciative of your partner. Consider being mindful of what your partner likes. Sometimes a romantic gesture is made as a way of saying thank you for being supportive or when you want to show how much they mean to you. Partners may take turns romancing each other when it is least expected to add surprise and excitement to the relationship.

Potential benefits of closeness in a relationship

A romantic partner that has your personal needs and interests at heart can be someone you can intimately trust. You may have someone to discuss your feelings and thoughts with, who can hear your insights and understand your concerns. They can listen to you and will generally want to spend time with you. You enjoy the simple things even more with this level of companionship, such as a walk in the park or the beauty of nature.

While romantic relationships can take work, they can be fulfilling and worth your effort. 

How can online therapy help those looking for romance in their relationship? 

If you’re looking for additional ways to boost romance in your relationship, online therapy can be a helpful tool to try. While you or your partner may feel nervous at the thought of discussing your relationship so publicly in an in-office setting, online therapy can be more discrete and available option — giving you the ability to connect with your therapist from the comfort of your own home or safe place. 

Is online therapy effective for relationships? 

Mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders and depression, can play a role in the level of romance or connection that’s felt in any relationship. Online therapy has been clinically suggested to be an effective way to deal with symptomatic manifestations of either condition. Current analysis from the National Council on Aging suggests that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person intervention, citing recent study from the American Psychological Association. 

Current research suggests that 96% of psychologists who chose to offer telehealth over the COVID-19 pandemic stated that it was therapeutically effective through patient self-reports, and 93% continued to offer the service even as the pandemic ended. 

Takeaway

The benefits and companionship that a partner can offer can make any effort you must take in the relationship worth it. Romance can be an important element of your relationship, but may not be in everyone’s due to the range of attraction between all genders and orientations. If you’re looking to facilitate a greater degree of romance in your relationship, online therapy can be a helpful place to start. Regain can match you with a therapist in your area of need.