Fast forward to a few years later.

The “What’s your favorite food?”

phase feels like a distant memory.

Senior couple having coffee in front of suburban home

momo productions / Getty Images

Wondering how to keep the spark alive?

At a Glance

Long-term relationships can sometimes mean falling into a rut, conversation-wise.

However, you could shake things up by diving deeper with your partner.

You might just discover hidden gems (and maybe a few quirks) you never knew existed!

Hopes and Dreams

Share your hopes, dreams, andaspirationswith your partner and ask them about theirs.

Dr. Romanoff recommends finding a connection between each of your dreams to the present day.

helping people, and find a volunteering opportunity you both could do together.

It could be anythinglots of tiny holes, raisins, moths, or monsters under the bed.

Our fears often reveal personality traits, childhood experiences, and parts of our identity.

They can be big goals, related to your career, finances,personal growth, or relationships.

Relationship Reflections

Reminisce with your partner about the early stages of your relationship.

What were some of yourfirst impressionsof each other?

What was your funniest date?

What did you appreciate most about each other?

What did you tell your friends after your first meeting?

When did you know they werethe one?

These conversations can help you see your relationship from their perspective, bringing you closer together.

Memories

Talk to your partner about yourchildhood memoriesand the defining moments of your life.

Ask them about theirs.

Talking about your memories helps you relive them in the present, says Dr. Romanoff.

More importantly, discuss how each one made you feel.

Did you love it or hate it?

Would you continue it?

it’s possible for you to also talk to your partner about creating new traditions together.

They could be small additions to your dailyroutine, like writing each other a cute note every day.

Travel and Adventure

Talking abouttraveland adventure can be an exciting escape from the routine of daily life.

Every now and then, you could revisit the bucket list to update it.

Whenever you are able to, plan trips with your partner.

venture to incorporate both your interests into the itinerary.

Fantasies

Another fun topic of conversation is fantasies.

Interests

Talk to your partner about your hobbies and interests.

Similarly, encourage them to follow their passions and ask them to share their thoughts and experiences with you.

This can get frustrating for both of you.

Focusing ongratitudecan help you break the negative cycle of arguing.

Everyone likes to feel appreciated and a little gratitude often goes a long way!

Your partner will appreciate it and youll behappiertooresearch shows us that gratitude and life satisfaction go hand in hand.

Keep in Mind

Sparking new conversations with your long-term partner can breathe fresh life into your relationship.