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The 6-Hour Rule: How Spending Just a Few Hours Together Can Save Your Relationship
Six hours a week could be all it takes to transform your love life
Relationships often feel like trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle — each piece representing time, effort, and connection. Add busy schedules and modern distractions, and it’s easy to see why many couples drift apart. But what if keeping love alive wasn’t about grand gestures, but small, consistent actions?
Dr. John Gottman, a leading relationship expert, has uncovered the magic number: six. Spending six intentional hours together each week can fortify emotional bonds, enhance intimacy, and help partners weather life’s storms. Here’s how to make it work.
1. Start the Day with Curiosity (10 Minutes Per Week)
Mornings are often a blur of coffee, commutes, and chaotic schedules. But even in the rush, take a moment to connect. Ask your partner a thoughtful question like, “What’s one thing you’re excited about today?” or “How can I support you?”
These small exchanges show that you value their inner world. For example, if your partner mentions a big meeting, follow up later to see how it went. This creates a thread of connection that carries through the day.