Small ways to keep your emotional connection strong in the relationship
Acknowledging and appreciating the small things that your partner does, even the things that are “supposed” to happen.
Asking each other about their day and actively listening while they share.
Not going on a monologue all the time, and sometimes if you do need all the space to yourself, making sure you ask them about themselves next time.
Believing that your partner needs support, even if they look like they have it all together.
Showing support to them the way they would like to receive it, and not just how you want to show your care. E.g. providing words of affirmation because that is how they feel supported, even if that feels uncomfortable for you.
Being on your partner's team and not critiquing them in front of family or friends, even when you might not agree with them 100%. You can discuss this when you're both together.
Simple acts of service like making tea/coffee, breakfast in bed, surprising the other person by doing the laundry, planning a small date.
Having one small thing you do together every day that is intentional. Some couples do this by having one meal a day together without TV.
Ask questions, be curious, even when you feel like you know everything about them.
Tell them you need space and that you're unable to hear them if you are in a state of stress, defensiveness, or overall distance from them.
Take time to talk to each other every day. Not just about schedules and chores, but about how they feel. Listen with curiosity.
Wish each other good morning, share a hug or kiss, maintain that emotional connection on a daily level even if it feels unimportant.
When your partner shares a bid for connection and you're unable to meet it, do not respond with "you have too many expectations." Instead, you could ask what they would like from you. For example, a bid for connection could be "get me flowers" — what they actually want is to feel appreciated.
Value each other's opinions. "I understand where you're coming from when you say [repeat what they said], and you have a thoughtful way of looking at this, but I am unable to agree with you because…" — you can understand, respect, and also disagree with their opinion.
Share criticism with the idea and premise that you are coming from a place of looking out for them, helping them grow, and because you care about the relationship. When you take the time to explicitly say that, trust builds over time and the other person truly believes that you are on their team.
Apologizing beyond what your ego allows you to, and saying thank you even when it feels excessive.