Author: Katlyn Peterson

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Lifelong learning keeps your brain healthy, boosts self-fulfillment, and helps keep depression at bay – report academics at Walden University. But did you know that it can also strengthen your relationship with your partner?

When you take on a new challenge with a loved one – be it music, language, or art classes – it can strengthen your bond.

New challenges allow you to be vulnerable. They enable you to show your nurturing or caring side, and they add a novel element into your relationship. Numerous studies back the idea that learning side by side can help keep things feeling new and fresh.

It doesn’t matter if the subject matter is intellectual, practical, or manual; the important thing is to pick something that is fun and intriguing so that your time investment is more than worthwhile.

Engage in new and exciting activities

A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that couples that took part in weekly activities for 10 weeks reported higher satisfaction in their marriage, especially when activities were ‘exciting’ or ‘pleasant’.

Engaging in new or exciting activities can add thrill and adventure into your life! If you both prefer to learn to play an instrument online (think the violin, piano, or guitar), then you’ll still benefit, as long as it’s fun for everyone. In current times, online classes are a good option for couples wishing to pick up a new skill! They can also make it easier for partners to coordinate times and availabilities.

Competition can be healthy

A study carried out at Hokkaido University in Japan found that competition and passion are intricately linked.

While too much competition in any relationship can be unhealthy, sharing goals and competing in a respectful manner can keep you focused and interested in what you’re learning. Think of how much fun it can be to compete with your loved one in a game of chess. As long you keep things light and fun while encouraging your partner to stay motivated, competition can be great! Doing more research, practicing more, or even finding more information can boost learning and achievement. As dating expert Canwen Xu told People, “Adding some competition can make you more excited about your significant other, especially if you’ve been together a long time.”

A Shoulder to Lean On

Learning something with your significant other allows you to access information, discuss important topics, and obtain advice on everything from how to hold a musical instrument to how to phrase an idea for an upcoming essay or review. Your partner can be a sounding board, motivator, and coach all in one; letting you know you are not alone in your educational journey.

Couples can gain new respect and admiration for each other as they take on a new subject. Each person will have strengths and talents that would’ve remained hidden to the rest of the world in the past!

If you are keen on learning a new subject or skill, and your partner shares your interest, learning together is also a magnificent way to strengthen your bond as a couple. Pleasurable and exciting activities in particular have been shown to strengthen passion. However, any course you undertake together can foster your roles as loving partner; encouraging their significant other to be their very best self and to continue learning throughout their lifetime.

If you’re looking for a partner, look no further than on the Clover Dating app!

After almost a decade working in family law, Katlyn decided to take a step back to spend more time with her family. Today, she enjoys contributing to a range of websites, sharing her personal and professional knowledge on the topics that matter to her.