Many people associate identity development with adolescence or young adulthood, when we’re encouraged to ask: Who am I? What do I want from life?

Emotional intimacy is the heartbeat of a healthy relationship. It’s what allows partners to feel seen, known, and deeply connected—even during moments of conflict or stress. Yet for many couples, sustaining that sense of closeness can be challenging, especially amid the demands of daily life or in the wake of relational ruptures.