The FOCUS Podcast with Taralee

Episode 31: Our Preference for Novelty in Marriage


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Does your marriage feel more… normal than magical these days?

If you've ever thought, "We lost the spark," "We're basically roommates," or "Is this all there is?"—this episode is for you.

In Part 3 of my 7 Connection Killers series (inspired by Dr. Matt Townsend's work), we're talking about our preference for novelty—how our brains are wired to chase what's new and exciting, and how that can quietly sabotage long-term connection if we don't understand it.

In this episode, you'll hear:

  • Why your brain loved the early "spark" (dopamine + novelty)

  • How comfort and safety can get mislabeled as "boring"

  • Why you don't usually "fall out of love"… you just stop looking for it

  • Dr. Matt Townsend's hack: Practice caring curiosity with your partner

  • Simple "curiosity practices" you can try this week:

    • Doing the opposite (talk less / talk more)

    • Asking one new question each day

    • Joining your spouse's hobby

    • Learning something new together

    • Doing one exhilarating thing as a team

You don't need a brand new love story—you might just need new eyes for the one you already have.

✨ Next step: Read the companion blog for this episode on my site: https://taraleeeddington.com/blog/when-familiar-love-feels-boring-our-preference-for-novelty-in-marriage

💛 Want support? Book a free Marriage Clarity Call with me.

Learn more about the 12-week Marriage Breakthrough Program: https://peacefulheartjourney.com

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The FOCUS Podcast with TaraleeBy Taralee Eddington