I used to be miserable from October to February. All I wanted was a little quality time, some sex, some attention! It was football Sunday, football Monday, basketball Tuesday, basketball Wednesday, basketball and football Thursday, basketball Friday, basketball Saturday. When was I supposed to get on the schedule?

Now, I’m a girl who likes sports, but this was a bit much. I felt like I had to time my conversations just right, force myself to stay up past the late games, or try to be a sexy distraction from the game. And nothing makes you feel less sexy than seeing his eyes on the TV while you’re trying to work your magic. Take it from me.

I could have demanded his time, but he would resent it, and our time wouldn’t have been quality time. I am a firm believer that you still need your “me” time when you’re married, but you also need that “us” time even more. Robert loves the Lakers and the Eagles, and we both love those Tarheels! So, instead of being mad every night of the week, I decided to spend time with him watching the game. And I really got into it! I checked out a little ESPN so I could have a little something to talk about. I made special game night meals. I asked questions about the game (but not too many) to show my interest. Eventually, it became time that we both looked forward to spending together. Before long, Robert was buying me jerseys and taking me to games. It was real quality “us” time.

Now don’t get me wrong. I was not spending 7 days a week watching sports. I chose one or two games per week, and we both still got to enjoy our personal time too. We can easily get caught up in doing our own thing and miss out on opportunities to connect with one another.

Having common interests can help decrease conflicts and help make you guys a team. Showing interest in something he’s interested in not only allows you to spend more quality time, but shows that you care about him, it allows you to learn new things about him, and it deepens your friendship. So where can you show a little more interest? Think about something he does a lot that keeps him away from you, and that should be a good place to start.