Military couples face unique challenges in their relationships due to the nature of their jobs, such as frequent moves, deployments, separation, long work hours, and limited time together.
They have found ways to maintain healthy and fulfilling relationships despite these obstacles through relational creativity. Relational creativity involves finding new and innovative ways to strengthen communication, build trust, deepen intimacy, and nurture the relationship. Military couples employ this creativity in various ways to navigate environmental limitations, including using technology, planning dates in advance, making small gestures, and being flexible and adaptable. This article will explore how military couples utilize relational creativity in each of these areas.
Technology
One way military couples employ relational creativity is through technology. Long distances can make it difficult for couples to connect, but video chats, phone calls, text messages, and social media allow them to stay in touch regularly. Some couples even create virtual date nights or play games together online. These technologies help bridge the physical distance and keep the relationship strong.
Military couples must be mindful of the risks associated with technology use, such as cyberbullying, sexting, and infidelity. They should establish clear boundaries and guidelines for technology use and communicate openly about any concerns.
Planning Dates in Advance
Another way military couples use relational creativity is by planning dates in advance. With a busy schedule, it can be challenging to find time for quality time alone, so couples must plan ahead. This may involve setting up regular date nights or scheduling special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. Military couples also take advantage of downtime during deployments or trainings to spend time together. This requires creativity because they often have limited access to entertainment options in their new location. Couples may enjoy simple activities like hiking or picnicking, or they may try something new, such as cooking classes or dance lessons. Planning dates in advance helps military couples prioritize their relationships and creates anticipation and excitement for the next event.
Small Gestures
Military couples show their love and appreciation for each other through small gestures that demonstrate care and consideration. These gestures can include sending cards, flowers, or gifts, writing letters or emails, and leaving notes around the house. Small gestures are significant because they show that one partner values the other and is thinking of them even when apart. Some military couples create a jar of "I Love You" notes to read throughout the day or start a tradition of celebrating milestones together, such as finishing training or reuniting after deployment. These traditions build closeness and strengthen the bond between partners.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Military couples use relational creativity to adapt to changing circumstances and remain flexible in their relationship.
If one partner has to move suddenly due to a transfer or deployment, the couple may need to adjust quickly to maintain a healthy relationship. They must communicate openly about expectations and feelings and find ways to make things work despite distance or change. Military couples who practice flexibility and adaptability are better equipped to handle challenges and grow stronger over time. This requires communication, empathy, and willingness to compromise.
In what ways do military couples employ relational creativity to navigate environmental limitations?
Military couples face unique challenges that often require creative solutions in order to maintain healthy relationships. One way they have employed relational creativity is by staying connected through long deployments or frequent moves. This can involve using technology like video calls or writing letters to keep the lines of communication open. Additionally, military couples may engage in shared activities such as working out together, attending community events, or planning vacations in advance to create new memories and strengthen their bond.