Flirting isn’t just for first dates and singles bars. In fact, keeping that playful spark alive in long-term relationships can be even more rewarding – and important. Many couples fall into the trap of thinking flirtation belongs only to the early stages of dating, but incorporating flirtatious behavior into your established relationship can reignite passion and strengthen your connection.
When you’ve been with someone for years, flirting takes on new dimensions. It becomes less about the chase and more about reminding your partner that you still find them attractive and desirable, even after all this time together. The beauty of long-term relationship flirting is that it builds on the intimate knowledge you already have of each other.
Every couple develops their own unique flirting style. One friend shared that her flirting ritual with her husband consists of “mostly joking inanely, poking each other, and sticking our tongues out.” Another friend offered a surprisingly specific suggestion involving Game of Thrones that apparently works wonders for kindling romantic feelings.
In my own relationship of five years, I rely heavily on cheesy pickup lines delivered with exaggerated eyebrow wiggles. My partner usually responds with an amused eye-roll before giving me the kiss or hug I was angling for. Mission accomplished! We also engage in quick-witted banter that might seem harsh to outsiders but actually showcases what we love most about each other – our humor, intelligence, and quick thinking.
Sometimes flirting doesn’t need words at all. A playful flash of skin or a suggestive glance across the room can communicate volumes. Even these more physical forms of flirtation don’t need to be serious or overtly sexual. In fact, incorporating some goofiness into your flirting can help overcome the self-consciousness that sometimes accompanies these interactions. Acknowledging the potential awkwardness through humor makes flirting feel more natural and less forced.
While the most effective flirting strategy will always be the one that resonates with your specific relationship dynamic, here are some universally appealing phrases to get you started on rekindling that flirtatious energy with your long-term partner:
11 Flirty Phrases to Instantly Set the Mood with Your Long-Term Partner
These simple expressions can help bring back that exciting, butterflies-in-stomach feeling, even after years together. Whether whispered during a quiet moment or sent in a surprise text message during the workday, these phrases signal to your partner that they’re still very much desired.
The most important thing to remember is that authentic flirting stems from genuine attraction and affection. Don’t try to force a flirting style that doesn’t feel natural to you or your relationship. Instead, build on the connection you already have, using these phrases as inspiration rather than a script to follow.
Pay attention to what makes your partner smile, blush, or respond positively, and incorporate more of those elements into your interactions. Sometimes the most effective flirting happens when you least expect it – during ordinary moments that suddenly become extraordinary through a meaningful glance or playful comment.
Remember that flirting isn’t just about initiating intimacy; it’s about maintaining the fun, playful connection that brought you together in the first place. By keeping flirtation alive in your relationship, you’re investing in its continued vitality and growth for years to come.