Strategies to Maintain Intimacy During Temporary or Rotational Assignments
Couples who must temporarily or permanently relocate for work may experience stress and challenges related to their relationship. This can include feelings of isolation, loneliness, anxiety, fear, and frustration.
There are several effective strategies that can be used to maintain intimacy during these times, such as regular communication and honesty, setting aside time for emotional connection, exploring new interests together, making compromises, staying physically fit, and scheduling date nights.
Communication
Regular communication is essential for maintaining intimacy, even when apart. Couples should establish clear expectations and boundaries regarding phone calls, video chats, text messages, email exchanges, and social media interactions. They should also discuss topics they would like to avoid, as well as those they wish to address more frequently. Setting up weekly check-ins or daily updates can help them feel connected. Encouraging openness about feelings and experiences can also promote intimacy.
Emotional Connection
In addition to maintaining regular contact, couples need to set aside time for emotional connection. This could involve sharing thoughts and feelings, expressing gratitude, talking about dreams, and discussing future plans. It's important to make time for these conversations without distractions or interruptions. Engaging in activities together such as reading books, watching movies, cooking meals, or taking walks can also enhance emotional closeness.
New Interests
Exploring new interests together can strengthen the bond between partners. Whether it's trying a new restaurant, attending cultural events, learning a new skill, or simply spending time outdoors, engaging in shared activities promotes intimacy by providing a sense of adventure and discovery. Couples may also consider joining clubs, organizations, or groups related to their hobbies or career fields.
Compromises
Couples who are separated often face challenges that require compromise. One partner may be unable to visit frequently due to work schedules, while the other may have difficulties adjusting to a different culture or environment. Both parties must recognize each other's needs and find ways to accommodate them.
One partner may take on additional household responsibilities while the other is away, or they might prioritize phone calls over video chats when scheduling allows.
Physical Fitness
Staying physically fit is another way to maintain intimacy during temporary assignments. Exercise releases endorphins that promote happiness and well-being, reducing stress and improving mood. Couples can exercise together virtually using online classes or apps, or independently with guidance from personal trainers. They can also support each other through healthy eating habits and regular check-ins about progress.
Date Nights
Scheduling date nights on a regular basis helps couples maintain a romantic connection. This could involve planning special meals, watching movies at home, going on walks, taking weekend trips, or exploring new restaurants. It's important to set aside time for these occasions without distractions or interruptions, making sure both partners feel valued and appreciated.
Maintaining intimacy during temporary or rotational assignments requires effort, communication, compromise, and creativity. By following these strategies, couples can stay connected emotionally, intellectually, and physically, promoting a strong and healthy relationship even when apart.
What strategies help couples maintain intimacy during temporary or rotational assignments?
The main strategy for couples to maintain intimacy while apart on temporary or rotational assignments is communication. Regularly checking in with each other through video calls, phone calls, texts, and emails can help them feel connected even when physically separated. It's also important to set boundaries around work hours and make time to connect outside of work responsibilities.