How to have more fun in your relationship

When was the last time you and your partner truly had fun together—not just ticking off the to-do list, but fully immersed in each other’s company?

If it’s been a while, you’re not alone. Between work, family, and responsibilities, joy can easily slip to the bottom of the list. But play and laughter aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re vital ingredients for a thriving, connected relationship.

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What Is “True Fun”?

In her book The Power of Fun, Catherine Price defines True Fun as the confluence of playfulness, connection, and flow.

These three elements create the kind of joy that makes time fly and leaves you feeling deeply connected.

• Playfulness means letting go of outcomes and enjoying the moment.
• Connection is sharing an experience that feels meaningful.
• Flow happens when you’re so engaged that you lose track of time.

As John Gottman, a leading relationship researcher, reminds us:

“Play isn’t a luxury or an indulgence—it’s a necessity for a successful, happy relationship.”

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Why Fun Fades (and Why It Matters)

Over years of caring for family, building careers, and keeping life running smoothly, it’s easy to put your own joy aside. Fun feels like something to “earn” later.

But couples who play together really do stay together. Shared laughter strengthens emotional intimacy and keeps your bond resilient during life’s tougher moments—especially in midlife transitions like the empty nest years or hormonal changes that shift energy and mood.

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Everyday Fun Counts

Fun doesn’t have to mean expensive date nights or elaborate getaways. It can be as simple as dancing while doing dishes, taking a walk and making each other laugh, or trying a new recipe together.

Even small doses of playfulness release dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that boosts connection and energy.

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Try This Fun Relationship Exercise

If it’s been too long since you had real fun together, try this simple, playful exercise:

1. Set aside uninterrupted time. Phones off, distractions away.
2. Grab a big sheet of paper or a whiteboard.
3. Brainstorm activities that sound fun—things you’ve done before or always wanted to try. Don’t filter or judge!
4. Circle the ones you both want to do.
5. Pick one and plan a date within the next two weeks. Commit to it!

Sometimes, the act of dreaming together is the spark you both need.

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Fun brings lightness back into your relationship, helping you reconnect and remember why you chose each other in the first place.

If self-criticism or emotional overload get in the way of fun, explore how self-compassion can help you reconnect with joy.

So go ahead—laugh, play, and be silly. It’s not frivolous—it’s love in action.

Ready to Bring Joy and Connection Back to Your Relationship?

Whether you’ve drifted apart or just lost your spark in the day-to-day routine, couples coaching can help you reconnect, communicate more clearly, and rediscover the laughter and love that brought you together.

Book a Free 20-Minute Discovery Call

No pressure—just a chance to explore how coaching can support your relationship.