Date Night In

By Emma Carpenter 

It's Date Night! And that means finding a way to connect with our significant other. Date Night doesn’t always have to mean going to a fancy dinner. It just has to mean having quality time to connect. One of my favorite ways to connect on date night is to pick a meal from a cookbook and make it with my boyfriend. We’re able to share our passion for trying new things while staying on a budget.

Other popular Date Night In ideas include:

• play a game

• binge watch Netflix

• create art

• have a beer or wine tasting

No matter what activity you choose, during your Date Night try to talk to one another about more than just “What did you do today?”. Dig deeper and ask questions that will strengthen your connection. The Gottman Institute calls this Building Love Maps. Love Maps are your understanding of your partner’s inner world. Their likes, dislikes, hopes, fears, dreams, and passions.

Here are a few questions you can try this Date Night:

• What makes you feel most confident and competent in your job?

• What is your favorite childhood memory?

• What stresses are you facing in the immediate future? What helps soothe you?

• Would you rather [insert options here]? Why?

• If you could live anywhere where would you choose and why?

Emma Carpenter Marriage THerapist

Any conversation topic that gives you a deeper understanding of who your partner is strengthens your Love Maps. What are some conversation topics that help you feel connected to your partner? Emma Carpenter is a therapist practicing in Philadelphia, PA. Emma supports individuals and couples manage the challenges that they face to lead happier and healthier lives. To schedule a free phone consultation with Emma, email info@abetterlifetherapy.com or call 267-838-0066.