29/05/2025
When you think about your relationship, do you still see your partner as your best friend?
According to decades of research by the Gottman Institute, one of the most important foundations of a happy, lasting relationship is friendship. It might sound simple, but couples who truly enjoy each other’s company—who laugh together, share inside jokes, support each other’s dreams, and stay curious about one another—are far more likely to weather life’s challenges together.
Gottman refers to this as the "glue" that holds a relationship together. Without it, couples can begin to feel more like housemates or co-parents than partners.
Here are a few ways to reconnect as friends:
🍃 Do something fun together that isn’t about problem-solving or planning
🍃 Ask open-ended questions and really listen to the answers
🍃 Make space for laughter and lightness, even during busy times
🍃 Celebrate each other’s wins—big or small
If your relationship feels more functional than fulfilling lately, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t mean love is lost. It might just mean your friendship needs nurturing.
Our counselling team can help you rebuild that sense of closeness, fun, and emotional connection. Whether you’ve been together 6 months or 20 years, it’s never too late to rediscover the friendship at the heart of your relationship.
Send us a message today to learn how relationship therapy can help you feel like teammates again—not just partners, but best friends 🤍
