The term “quality time” can mean a great many things to different people, but however individuals choose to spend their time with their significant others, it’s an important activity to uphold. 

It’s not always easy to set aside time for couples, though. During the warmer months, many parents have so much going on with their children’s schedules that they unconsciously neglect their own needs. 

Read on to learn more about how to prioritize quality time with the person you love, even when you’re particularly busy.

Why is Quality Time Important?

Even couples who have been together for decades need to spend quality time together. This time allows significant others or spouses to focus their efforts on one another, check in with each other, and provide their relationship with a little TLC. 

Quality time doesn’t have to become a big ordeal, though. If you and your partner view quality time as talking about your week over a cup of coffee or having takeout during a movie night, that’s acceptable. The point of quality time is to connect with your partner mentally, physically, and emotionally. 

During a busy week, you can forget to talk to your partner about the stresses you’re facing, something funny you saw the other day, or anything else under the sun. Setting aside some time for just the two of you to connect in a meaningful way.

How to Focus on Your Relationship While Busy

Try a few of these easy techniques if you want to make a bit of time for yourself and your partner to spend together.

  • Plan Your Time: Don’t wait for quality time to happen on its own, because a busy schedule will get in the way of that without fail. Instead, schedule quality time with your partner and try something together (like a new restaurant or event) during a time in which you’re both fully available.

  • Listen: When you’re spending quality time together, provide your partner with your undivided attention. Listen, talk, and connect with one another effectively. Don’t look at your phone or think about that big project you have going on at work (unless that’s part of the discussion).

  • Show Appreciation: Find little moments to show your partner you love and appreciate them. For example, if you know your partner likes a certain drink from your local coffee shop, surprise them by delivering the drink to their workplace. It’s little things that really make a big impact.

  • Be Affectionate: Show your partner affection during your quality time to enhance the connection you’re experiencing. Hold hands, sit close together, or huddle close under a blanket when you’re watching TV together. Even when you’re not in the middle of quality time, don’t forget to hug or kiss your partner more often than usual.

  • Reach Out in Other Ways: Even if you’re finding it difficult to spend time together, reach out in other ways. Send your partner a good morning text or call them during your lunch break. Do your best to find simple ways to let that person know that you love them and you’re thinking about them.


Quality time is going to look and feel different depending on the unique aspects of your relationship, so if you’re not doing exactly what everyone else is doing, don’t fret. As long as you and your partner are enjoying the special time you spend with each other, there’s quality in that.