Dear Diary,

The beginning stages of my relationships are usually the best and most blissful times of my life. The period where it's usually butterflies and sparks flying everywhere; I can't go a minute without thinking about my partner, or even keep our hands off each other!

But after a while of being together, the sparks sometimes die down and the relationship may start to feel old and stagnant. Many couples may experience this, but it doesn't always have to be this way. There are many ways to keep the spark alive and well in your relationship, but below are a few that I believe can help.

COMMUNICATION: When you first started dating, you got to know each other by opening up, and communicating. As a relationship progresses, so should the keep the communication. Like a plant needs water to grow, a relationship also needs communication in order to grow. One of the main reasons why many relationships fail is because of a lack of communication. Talk to your partner by opening up about the things that might be bothering you. You should also be able to share simple things such as how your day went with each other. When you keep that line of communication open, it not only brings you closer together, but it also prevents unnecessary arguments. Communication = one of the most essential factors that determines how happy you are, and how healthy your relationship is!

BE COMFORTABLE, BUT STILL PUT IN EFFORT: When you first started dating, the level of comfort you may have now probably didn't just start right away. There was probably a time during the dating stage of your relationship where you wanted to "impress" your partner: you always made sure your hair was perfect, your makeup was done, and you looked, and smelled good. However, once you settle in to the relationship, you might not have continued to put in the same effort in certain areas as before. I mean, if your partner have seen you when you first wake up in the morning (make-up free, morning breath and all) - chances are you're beginning to reach that comfortable stage in your relationship. And there's nothing wrong with letting your hair down,chilling in sweats, and simply being able to be yourself around your partner! A guy who genuinely accepts me for who I am (flaws & all) - is the best to keep around! However, being comfortable shouldn't mean that you have stopped trying altogether. Keep the spark alive by bringing a little bit of the old you to that new place in your relationship. 

MAKE TIME FOR EACH OTHER: When you first started dating, spending quality time with each other was most likely a priority. Life can get pretty hectic at times, and there are many things that you have to do throughout the day. However, spending time with your partner should be a priority. No one wants to feel ignored, or unloved - especially your partner. If you did simple things when you first started dating such as chilling and watching TV, then make sure to make time for that. Depending on your schedules, dedicate certain days or hours throughout the week to sit back, relax, and enjoy each other's company. Spend time cuddling together, watching a movie, eating dinner....or making love. Whatever it is that you do, make sure that you make it a priority to show your partner that you love and care about them. 

BE SPONTANEOUS: When you first started dating, there were probably a series of cute little text messages or  letters, and even surprise gifts that you received from your partner. As the time passes, some of these things might become less...and less. Though you should not allow your relationship to become routine, you and your partner should never stop doing nice things for each other! Some of the simplest things, can mean so much. There are many things you can do to surprise your partner such as planning a trip for a weekend, going on a picnic, going out to a restaurant, leaving flowers and cute love notes for them, sending them sexy letters or pictures etc. Surprises can be sweet and inexpensive ways of keeping the spark alive. Simply try new things! A little thought can go a long way. 

LAUGH AND HAVE FUN: When you first started dating, you were probably able to keep each other interested by laughing and having fun. Laughter is one of the biggest pluses in a relationship! I love someone with whom I can be playful, and have a good time. Having a sense of humor in stressful situations can make things so much easier. In order to keep each other happy, you and your partner should always make sure to set time aside to do something playful that you both enjoy. Being playful not only connects you and your partner, but it's also essential to our joy in life. Playing,and having fun adds laughter, and happiness - which are both key to your relationship!

The true purpose of a relationship is to share your life with someone special that you genuinely love, and care about. Staying together through the rough spots in your relationship requires both time, and effort. You and your partner have to be willing to work together  to keep your relationship strong and healthy. The sparks in your relationship can be kept alive, no matter how long you and your partner have been together. You just have to be open to trying new things, and also remind your partner why you fell in love with them in the first place.

How do YOU keep the spark in your relationship alive? Do you think it's truly possible to be with someone for the rest of your life?