Couples who suddenly find they are faced with an excess amount of time with each other might panic, but many of them have stumbled through long enough to regain the emotional ties they had before their children took over their lives. It takes a lot of hard work to maintain a relationship, and neglecting it while the children are gone can bring a hefty price. Some will find divorce is their only options, but others are looking for a way to get back what they first had together. For those who are determined to remain together, discussing reunification is the first step.
People change as they grow through life, so it is little wonder that couples who have been too busy to really spend time together suddenly find there is a large rift between them. One person might have discovered they have little patience for the details in life, and the other might realize they prefer to concentrate on the smallest details to keep functioning. They did not necessarily believe these things when they made their commitment, and now their lives do not mesh because of their opposition.
Talking through issues is one of the best ways to define them, and discussing differences can help each person see through the eyes of their spouse. They might not agree with everything, but it is a step that defines how they differ. They can then begin to look for ways they are alike or in agreement, and this will help them develop their road map to travel back to each other.
The years of child rearing are always difficult for couples when they want to find time to just be together, and ignoring their needs as a couple can cause issues later in life. It does not mean their relationship is completely over, and they can build bridges back to the couple they were when they first fell in love.
