Do ppl not LIKE their spouses after marriage?

That feeling of hearing your partner walk through the door and not feeling that immediate flutter of excitement, or even a slight sigh of 'here we go again' – it's a conversation I've found myself in, and one I've definitely observed in others. It's easy to wonder, just like that woman joking about being 'annoyed when her husband comes home' or the friend who sighed at her husband's early return, if we're all secretly losing that special spark in marriage. And honestly, it's a completely normal part of the long journey of a relationship. The initial honeymoon phase, filled with intense passion and novelty, naturally evolves. Life gets busy. Responsibilities pile up. That modern kitchen that once hosted romantic dinners now sees hurried breakfasts and endless chores. We settle into comfortable routines, and sometimes, that comfort can inadvertently mask the need for intentional connection. It’s not necessarily that love dies, but rather that it transforms, and if not actively nurtured, that initial interest in marriage can wane. So, what can we do when we notice this lost passion in marriage creeping in? I’ve been trying some things, and observing what works for others, and here are a few thoughts: First, rekindle the intentionality. Remember those early dating days when every moment felt special? Try to bring some of that back. Schedule regular 'date nights,' even if it's just a cozy evening in your living room after the kids are asleep. It doesn't have to be grand; sometimes, simply cooking a meal together in that large island kitchen, or having a dedicated conversation without distractions, can make a huge difference. Second, prioritize communication beyond logistics. It’s easy to get caught up in talking about bills, kids, and chores. But when was the last time you truly asked your partner about their dreams, their fears, or what excites them? Or shared your own? Opening up emotionally can bridge gaps that routine has created. Third, don't forget the small gestures. A quick text during the day, a compliment, a warm greeting when they walk through the door (even if you're internally groaning about pausing your show!). These little acts of appreciation acknowledge their presence and remind both of you that you're seen and valued. It’s about building a positive emotional bank account. Fourth, invest in individual growth. It sounds counterintuitive, but having your own passions and interests outside of the relationship makes you a more interesting, vibrant person to come home to. When you're both bringing new experiences and perspectives to the table, there's always something fresh to share and discuss. Finally, practice gratitude. In the daily grind, it’s easy to focus on what irritates us. Try actively noticing and appreciating the good things your partner does, big or small. Maybe they always make sure the hardwood floors are clean, or they handle bedtime stories. Acknowledging these efforts can shift your perspective and remind you why you chose them. Losing a bit of that initial spark isn't a sign of failure; it's an invitation to grow and deepen your connection. It's about consciously choosing to invest in the relationship, transforming that early, exhilarating passion into a richer, more profound love that can withstand the test of time and routine. It's a continuous journey, but one absolutely worth embarking on.