It was a challenging year for many. But as we close out that chapter, it’s good to reflect on lessons learned. I want to focus specifically on what COVID-19 has taught us about marriage/relationships. 

1. Healthy communication is a necessity.

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, many families found themselves at home. The bustle of a busy home 24/7 can be overwhelming. Some transitioned to work from home or lost jobs. Some found their jobs classified as essential. Each scenario brought its own stressors and hurdles. Through all of this, one need remained the same: strong communication. As couples adjusted to a new normal, there was a critical need to make sure communication happened often and well.

2. Marriage is about commitment and appreciation.

As a couple, you don’t have to face trials alone. Married couples can walk the road of uncertainty together hand in hand. As the pandemic began, many predicted a rise in divorce in America. The thought was that marriages wouldn’t survive if couples spent extended time together. Instead, the AFS found that divorce decreased in 2020. That’s great news! 

More couples surveyed said their marriage grew stronger during the pandemic. They experienced a deeper commitment and appreciated their partner more. When times are tough, we turn to our loved ones for support. 2020 was proof of this. Marriage provided a supportive framework for many as the world around them closed.  In 2021, let’s continue to appreciate and commit to our partner. An appreciated spouse feels loved and respected.

3. Prioritizing sex during stressful times can keep your marriage/relationships healthy.

A common assumption when the pandemic began was a future baby boom. With more couples at home together, people assumed there would obviously be an increase in pregnancies. While we don’t know if the baby boom will happen, this survey shows that couples did prioritize sex in their marriage. 

Although stress can often lead to a decrease in the frequency of sex, more couples reported they had sex more often and connected intimately due to the pandemic. A healthy sex life is one sign of a healthy marriage. 

As we enter the new year, let’s continue to have sex a hot priority in our marriages.

4.  Recognize the Stressors

Regardless of how well a couple gets along or their situation at home, a pandemic is a stressful experience that can undermine the best of relationships. When stress is low, communication is unrelated to spouses’ happiness, but when stress increases, happiness goes down as communication deteriorates.

5. Check your anger levels

Communicating feelings is always important in a relationship, but angry confrontations can be disastrous. First, check your emotional state and the tone of voice that’s going to emerge with it. If you’re angry, bring yourself down first, with a drink of water, a few deep breaths, a distraction. Remembering your partner’s good qualities, gratitude, all those helps.

Versuasion Pakistan – Fareeha Robert