We all have our own definition of romance: it is a nicely-written love poem, a breakfast in bed, or an adorable puppy at your doorstep. It is a very important ingredient for every successful and passionate relationship, whether it’s still in the budding phase or running for more than 30 years already. Relationships usually start out with a bang, with romance at its sweetest and finest. But, life’s drudgery is always likely to interfere, and it is pushed aside for more pressing issues such as work, family and kids. Is it the fate of romance to wane and fade in the later stages of a relationship? Let’s find some answers to the common questions about romance: Are romance and sex one and the same? No, these are two very different things, although romance can ultimately lead to sex.

There are people who can be romantic just for the sake of romancing their partner, but there are also people who are only romantic because of sex. The latter is usually transparent and quite insincere, which could possibly backfire. On the other hand, being romantic without expecting anything in return will let your partner know that not only did you think about them, but you took the extra mile to show them how special they are to you. Is romance more important than our daily tasks? Daily tasks usually include jobs, hobbies, PTA meetings, and kids. These and many other things that life throws at us and what we think as more important often cause our relationship with our partner to be pushed aside.

What a lot of us fail to realize is that a strong relationship holds everything else in our life together. Romance is the spice that ultimately makes the relationship more thrilling and more pleasant as well. Is it ever possible to be romantic with very little time, effort and money to spare? No matter what time of day, it is always possible. Often, it’s the littlest things that count, such as opening the door for one’s partner, or giving him/her the day off from household chores. Although it would be romantic to be taken away on a luxurious yacht or be surprised with an expensive sports car, these cost a lot of money which most of us only dream about.

It’s the everyday gestures that can make a difference in the relationship. What matters more is your creativity and imagination to make your spouse feel special and loved. Are women the only ones born with a romantic bone? There is no doubt that women are more emotional, but it doesn’t mean that they are supposed to be the romantic one in the relationship. Romance is never gender-specific: both men and women need to play a part in spicing up their love life. Besides, no one is born with a romantic bone or gene. Every person has to learn the ropes if he/she wants to be romantic.

Is always saying "I Love You" enough? It’s nice to hear "I Love You", but actions can speak volumes more than a thousand words. Do something that your partner will surely like and forever remember, like composing a romantic song specially made for him/her. Do it when your spouse least expects it—impulsiveness and spontaneity can make any relationship exciting and successful.