Well, Valentine’s Day is over. With that comes the official end of the year’s best season for cuddles.
No, I’m not talking about winter–we’ve still got a bit more of that to go.
The season I’m referring to is the most infamous season in the dating calendar. And, that is none other than cuffing season.
What is cuffing season?
Young or old, big or small, cuffing season affects us all.
Just preceding “spring flings” and “single girl/guy summer,” cuffing season refers to a period of time where single people switch gears into relationship mode. Single people actively seek out partnerships as a way to pass through the fall and winter months.
The season generally lasts from October, when the weather begins to dip in temperature, to March, when things start to heat up again.
And, just like the season comes and goes, by the time Valentine’s Day wraps up and the infatuation wanes, cuffed-up couples tend to go their separate ways.
But, not always.
If you’re lucky, sometimes you can cuff yourself a keeper during cuffing season. When you find someone special, it’s important to strengthen your relationship so that it lasts the test of time.
While cuffing season might be coming to a close, it doesn’t mean your relationship has to end, too. Here are our top three tips for helping your new relationship last!
Don’t rush things
Despite what The Beatles have to say about it, for a relationship to pass the test of time, love is not all we need.
While it’s true that love is the foundation of a good relationship-–love can be fickle. Just one accidental peek at your partner picking their nose like an adult toddler and you might begin to question everything.
Love, or at least what feels like love, can happen fast. But, true, lasting, love comes with time.
It is also important to recognize that “love” is only one component of a larger whole because it requires other ingredients to be solid and healthy.
Couples that last the longest attribute their success to qualities like respect, romance, and regular quality time as being the foundation of their longevity.
So, if it’s been a few months and neither you nor your partner has confessed your undying love for each other—don’t worry. In the early stages of a relationship, it’s more important to notice qualities that can foster love in the long run.
Instead of focusing on blurting out those three little words ASAP, make sure your partner shows signs that they can handle your love in the long run. Someone that consistently treats you with respect, patience, and kindness is someone who is capable of sustaining a loving relationship, even in stormy weather.
Actions speak louder than words. If your partner is treating you with love and respect, that’s their way of saying “I love you” without words (for now).
Make time for romance
Couples who couldn’t make it past cuffing season often cite a lack of romance, as the reason for their split. If you’re noticing the spark begin to dwindle between you and your partner, it might be time to rev up the romance in your relationship.
However, amongst the hustle and bustle of daily life, that’s easier said than done. It can be easy to get caught up in the same old routine. But, becoming a creature of habit can be a bit of a turn off.
If you want to keep the romance alive in your relationship, it’s important to maintain a balance of both physical and emotional intimacy. Stealing kisses throughout the day, giving massages after a long day of work, or buying a new set of lingerie for yourself or your partner are surefire ways to dial up the heat.
However, keeping the romance alive within your relationship goes beyond the bedroom. Lasting romance thrives on building deep, emotional intimacy between you and your partner.
Even if your schedules are hectic, try to carve out some quality time for the two of you. One of the best ways for you to connect is through regular and meaningful communication.
Couples who dedicate part of their day towards connecting with their partner are more likely to go the distance. Whether that means eating breakfast together before work, or going for a stroll around the neighborhood after dinner, your partner is sure to appreciate the quality time.
If you want your relationship to withstand the test of time, it’s important to take some time for romance.
Communicate openly
While each couple is unique, when it comes to disagreements, it usually boils down to one common culprit. A lack of communication is one of the most common causes for failed relationships.
There’s nothing more heartbreaking than being unable to open up with the person who matters most to you. But, when you’re unable to express your feelings from the heart, seeing matters eye to eye seems impossible.
In order to maintain open and honest communication with your partner, it’s important to be truthful to one another.
Even in the early stages of a relationship, it’s important to set a precedent of honesty (without oversharing, of course). Opening up about yourself and sharing your feelings lets your partner know it’s safe for them to do the same.
While some privacy is important in a relationship, secrets often lead to hurt feelings and mistrust. Sharing your private thoughts and feelings with your partner is a great way to build trust and make the relationship stronger.
If you’re unable to trust your partner with your innermost feelings, it will be difficult for you to communicate–especially when problems arise.
Even when emotions are high, try to speak to your partner with love, patience and respect. Remember that it’s you two against the problem–not each other.
Relationships that last the longest are when the partners understand that being happy is better than being right. Learn how to make decisions with your partner, even if it goes against what you think is best.
For a relationship to make it past cuffing season, being willing to compromise is key.
Even more important?
Being able to say “I’m sorry.”
No matter how great you or your partner are, nobody is perfect. At some point or another, someone will make a mistake. When that happens, try to avoid stubbornness. Being quick to apologize–and actually meaning it–will help your relationship overcome the blunders.
Going the distance
With these tips in mind, you and your partner are sure to make it past cuffing season stronger than ever. As the weather gets warmer outside, let the love for you and your partner heat up, too!
Above all, remember to treat your partner with the same level of affection as when cuffing season began. Make them a priority in your life, even when your schedules get hectic.
Want more love and relationship tips?
From cuffing season to single summers, The Setup offers personalized dating coaching for every time of the year. Get expert tips on how to make your relationship last by joining The Setup today!