Make Your Friendships More Romantic. Yes, Your Friendships.

“Make your brotherly relationships more romantic and your romantic relationships more brotherly.” – A Course in Miracles

This may be a totally foreign concept to you–it sure was for me six years ago when I heard it–but it totally puts our traditional expectations and outlook on relationships on its head.

At the time, I was naturally expecting my romantic relationships to fulfill every single need. He should buy me flowers. He should pay for dinner. He should make me feel like the sexiest woman on earth.

And my friendships? I didn’t nurture them nearly as much. Friends were for heart-to-heart conversations and indulging in chocolate gluten-free cupcakes while singing at the top of our lungs.

But when I heard this quote, I felt it totally shatter this old way of thinking and approaching both kinds of relationships. Almost immediately, I started making a conscious effort to balance this out more–to schedule more dates with girlfriends and take the reigns on creating more adventure in my romantic relationships.

Put simply, I brought romance into my friendships and friendship into my romantic relationship. Brilliant!

If this concept has peaked your interest, why not try out a few of these simple tips to bring a refreshing element to all of the special people in your life.

Here are two ways to make you friendships more romantic, and two ways to invite more friendships into your romantic partnership.

Friendships:

1. Plan a date with your friends at a time and place that has a little romance. One of my favorite things to do is get a dessert and coffee in a cozy cafe late on a Friday night. Or cook dinner together, and watch a romantic comedy.
2. Bring the element of surprise into your friendships. Surprise your friends with a little gift or treat that makes them feel special. Something they would usually expect from their man.

Romantic partner:

1. Plan more group activities. Whether it’s a day at the beach with your favorite people or wine tasting at a great new spot, getting a crew together adds a whole new dynamic. Remember, every evening you spend with you beau doesn’t have to be just the two of you.
2. Learn how to be just as flexible and forgiving as you are with your friends.  It’s important to take all the pressure off of your man to be absolutely everything to you. So the next time he does something that annoys you, cut him some slack and forgive him, just like you would your best friend.

Now I’d love to hear from you! Have you ever tried to make your friendships more romantic and vice versa? If so, tell me about it in the comments below. And if you haven’t, I’d love for you to try one of the tips above out and tell me how it goes in the comments too!