All the Valentines buzz these last couple of weeks got me thinking, when in a long term relationship how do you make the time to show the other person you care when it’s not a special holiday? I mean Valentines Day shakes you by the shoulders, wraps you on the knuckles and smacks you in the face with “Show Her/Him the Love!” It is very hard to miss the hint.
What I have found since Glen and I started to work together is that as a couple it can be very hard to find a work life balance that not only makes time for you but time for each other. When you are doing what you love it is sometimes all to easy to neglect the person that you love. Valentines day for all it’s consumerism and marketing gimmicks does serve a very important purpose. You are forced to think about what you’re going to do to spend some meaningful time together. But for a healthy and loving relationship this thoughtfulness should really not be reserved for purpose built holidays and anniversaries.
Have fun every day. Make each other laugh ever day. Do something thoughtful every day. Even for just five minutes. Do something together and have shared experiences that are just for you; go to a movie, take a walk or cook together. Get in the car and drive somewhere new, just for the day.
Glen and I presumed that if we spent all day with each other when working together we would have all this extra quality time. The reality is when the stress and pressure of running your own business (yes working for yourselves is not all lie-ins and rainbows) the opposite can be true. The result is that if not mindful life can get all too serious and work obsessed. Having Valentines to remind you what is important is not a bad thing, but try make the effort last longer than just one day in February. It will make all the difference.
This year Glen is “surprising” me with afternoon tea at Le Manoir. Can you say “Brownie Points” soon enough?! But we are going the day before the 14th of February so its not just because its Valentine’s day…