Strong connection with a long-term partner requires syncing up on many different (and deeper) levels, not just chit-chatting about the minutia of your day-to-day.To that end, here are 10 powerful questions to ask your <a href="http://www.yourtango.com/2013191628/ways-support-your-spouse-through-mental-illness?utm_source=self&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=syndication">spouse </a> or partner often to help deepen your connection and love for each other.

What makes communication meaningful? 

Not, "what" are you doing, but "HOW" are you doing? <ul><li>Take time to ask this question and look your partner directly in the eyes while asking. </li><li>If you think there's something going on that they need to talk about, touch them on the arm or shoulder as you ask the question, or touch them softly on the face and tell them, "I really want to know how you're doing."</li></ul>

1. "How are you doing today?"

You see that your spouse is busy, hurried, or experiencing some frustration with getting everything done. <ul><li>Ask this question and be ready to take action on any request they have for help. </li><li>If you live with someone who tends to do it all on their own, touch them, look them in the eyes and say, "I really want to help you with this, what can I do?"</li></ul>

2. "Is there anything I can do to help you?"

<h2>This not a question that you often think to ask, but it's important to know their answer. </h2><ul><li>Know what concerns are nagging at your partner and be open to having a conversation about those worries (even if you don't feel concerned about the same things). </li><li>Whether it's about a project at work, a conversation with a family member, or the state of global affairs, know what scares them so you can help ease their fears.</li></ul>

8. "What is your biggest fear?" 

You should ask and seriously discuss this question every few months. <ul><li>Think about several areas when you talk about this question, including career, family, finances, friendships, your marriage, self-development (skills, hobbies or education), and mental and spiritual growth.</li></ul>

6. "What goals would you like to set for us, and for yourself?"

<h2>When you know your partner is trying to make an important decision, ask them this question. Another way to ask it is, "What do you really want?" </h2><ul><li>To understand your spouse's thoughts and needs, it's necessary to know their heart-felt answer to this question. </li><li>Asking it invites them to think through and talk about what they value most.</li></ul>

3. "What's important to you?" 

This is a question you ask during free time, when planning a date, going out to eat, or when discussing deeper goals and direction in life. <ul><li>Another way to ask this is: "If you could do anything you wanted, what would that be?" </li><li>You know your spouse's major goals and dreams, so work with them to see how to make their wants, desires, and aspirations possible.</li></ul>

4. "What would you like to do?" 

This question is especially important to ask when you know your spouse is going through a difficult or frustrating time. <ul><li>Perhaps it's a challenge your spouse is facing alone, or it could be a life obstacle you're facing together. </li><li>Find out what your spouse needs to feel nurtured and supported at this time, and then do that for them as much as you can.</li></ul>

5. "How can I encourage you?"

Life is not always fun. We spend much time doing our job, either at work or at home, that it's important to reward yourself for all your hard work and effort. <ul><li>Get involved in the things that bring happiness to each of you. </li><li>Activities that bring the greatest happiness can change depending on your stage in life, so don't be surprised when something new moves to the top of the list.</li></ul>

9. "What makes you feel the happiest?" 

This question can involve short-term and long-term goals, objectives, and desires. <ul><li>Take the time to know what those are for your partner and give their goals the attention they deserve. </li><li>Your efforts to make their ideal life a reality will help motivate them to prioritize your goals, objectives and desires, as well. (Be a giver to each other) </li></ul>

10. "What do you want out of our life together?"

This is an important question that every couple should discuss at least annually. <ul><li>Review how things have been going between you two over the past few months and determine any mid-course corrections you need to make so that your relationship stays healthy and fulfilling.</li></ul>

What makes communication meaningful?

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