The start of a new school year is beginning for many people. This time of year reminds me of new beginnings. I remember the excitement and nervous feelings I had wondering what the new school year would bring. I felt eager to learn new things and continue to grow and advance. Even though many of us will not be starting school again this fall, it is a great time to take the opportunity to learn something new.
The Benefits. In relationships, we often get stuck in the everyday stresses and routines of life. Learning something new with your partner can create a new bond and deepen the emotional connection you have with each other. Learning something new will help you have one more thing in common with your partner. Your new skill or activity will give you something new to talk about and the opportunity to spend more time together.
Besides the benefit of increased closeness, you and your partner will experience a sense of pride and accomplishment for setting and achieving a goal. Learning a new skill will help you grow personally as well, by stretching your abilities and talents, which in turn, will result in increased self-esteem. Trying something new requires courage and your experience will provide you and your partner with a greater sense of confidence. There are obviously many benefits to trying something new but sometimes it’s easier said than done.
Some obstacles. One of the obstacles that may get in the way of learning something new is not knowing where to begin. Sit down with your partner and brainstorm about things you’ve always wanted to learn. It might be learning a new language, ballroom dancing, cooking, playing the guitar, scuba diving, the possibilities are endless. Next, find some common interests. It will help with motivation if you are both interested in whatever you decide to learn. You might narrow it down to three or four things and then pick one to start on and save the others for later. After you have made your choice, find a way to learn. Many communities offer adult education courses. There are also many ways to learn new things through the internet, which makes learning easily accessible.
The everyday demands of life may get in the way of your new goal. Commit to each other to make your learning a priority. Set a specific time every day or week, whatever you can fit into your schedule, and stick with it. Not only are you making learning the new skill a priority but you are sending your partner a powerful message: “Spending time with you is important and you are most important to me above all else.” With this message, you will see increased intimacy, trust and closeness in your relationship. Couldn’t we all use those benefits in our relationships? So, sit down and start brainstorming with your partner tonight.
