During 2020, when that thing happened that I don’t like to talk about, my wife and I started a habit we have maintained: going on walks. During the thing that happened, we just wanted to get out of the house. But we discovered something on those walks that were birthed out of desperation—we can talk about stuff better when we are walking.
I should say I can talk about things better when we are walking. So almost every day we take a walk, and I don’t want to use the word magical, but the word fits. So much happens during what amounts to 10-minute quick dates: a time to laugh, connect, and get creative. Here are 7 reasons to plan a 10-minute daily date.
1. Reconnection
A quick check-in can be full of affection, affirmation, and information that makes you closer. These brief moments can strengthen your connection by giving you a few moments to get and be gotten. For 10 minutes, put on your favorite playlist, and do whatever you like.
2. Rekindles Romance
When our kids were smaller, our bedroom closet became our secret hideout. Don’t underestimate the power of 10 minutes behind a locked door. Find your escape hatch, make it your own, and do what you like.
3. Reduces Stress
We all need a break from adulting to be an adorable couple. A brief escape can lower anxiety and tension, allowing you to relax, recharge, and reconnect with each other and have conversations that don’t begin with, “Who’s turn is it to…” Take 10 minutes to breathe and stretch in more ways than one.
4. Enhances Quality Time
The average couple talks for less than four minutes a day. What could happen if a couple gave each other 10 intentional moments with no distractions? A lot. By prioritizing quality over quantity, you can deepen your connection and create some short but awesome memories. Take 10 minutes and laugh at the Instagram reels you already sent each other.
5. Creates Good Memories
Great marriages are made up of small moments that add up to big happiness. These small, intentional moments can create moments that matter. Take 10 minutes and be silly, dance, play a game—just make it fun.
6. Grows Gratitude
Stopping to focus on each other gives you a few breaths to be grateful for your person… and let your person know it. Who doesn’t want to feel appreciated? Take 10 minutes to tell each other what you appreciate about one another.
7. Prevents Drifting Apart
It’s easy to drift apart one day at a time. But a simple 10 minutes a day can go a long way in keeping you connected. Regular, intentional connection can prevent feelings of loneliness, resentment, and disconnection. Take 10 minutes and find ways to be an “us,” two people who remember to “be” in the middle of the “do.”
What would you like to do with your hubby on a 10-minute date?
