It's here, whether you're a fan or not, the World Cup is upon us, and it's probably about to take over your partner's life. But like any stressful time for couples such as Christmas or the family summer holiday, forewarned is forearmed. I've put together a list of helpful pointers to make sure you and your beloved don't come to blows over this wonderful sporting occasion. He'll be lost in his own world for 4 weeks but that doesn't mean you have to miss out or feel like you want to punch him, you can make it work for both of you.
1. Remember - it's just four weeks of your life.
First things first - only 4 weeks of your life that will be dominated by 'the game', so don't sweat it. Sure your partner may undergo a personality transplant and go into a trance like state each time the whistle blows, but don't hate him, just think of a topless Bradley Cooper and move on.
2. Plan things to do together around the fixtures
Sit down with your partner and work out when you can spend time with each other around the fixtures. This way you can focus only on each other and leave him to it when a match is on. And if he starts to talk about the game on one of 'your days', just tell him you'll talk through the next England match - he'll stop.
3. Plan things without your partner
The World Cup can be a GREAT excuse to get some extra me time while your partner is otherwise engaged. When you know he will be watching the game, make plans for some me time, a weekend break with the girls, or just an opportunity to catch-up with your crew for a night out away from anything remotely 'ball' related.
4. Don't accept any joint invitations
Once you know what fixtures your partner will be glued to, there's is no point saying you'll be at Sandra and Bob's cheese and wine night as per usual, it's just not going to happen without and a massive row, mood, or both. So unless your friends have a wide-screen and some chilled beer, don't commit to anything together that clashes with the fixtures previously discussed.
5. Show your support
Even if you couldn't give two S**ts about the game, show your partner you care by taking an interest in the game; he'll be too busy talking about player strategies to notice that you couldn't care less. Wear an England shirt if you're watching the game together, and if England lose and his mood dips within seconds, don't take it to heart, just tip toe away to let him grieve in private.
6. If you watch a match together - keep the chat minimal
I'm sure your other-half will be delighted to watch a game with you, really, but remember to keep any chat pre or post game, he won't want to explain the off-side rule mid play and he 'may' get a bit shirty with you.
7. Stock up on food and drink
Like any other social occasion, tasty nibbles and chilled beers are essential to match watching success at home. Be the hostess with the mostess and surprise your beau and his friends with an array of delicious treats then wave goodbye and enjoy your evening. They'll think you're a goddess.
8. Remember - it's not personal
You 'may' feel like a football widow or a ghost while the tournament is on, but remember - it's not you, no really. Keep yourself busy and enjoy this time out from love with your girlfriends, and before you know it, your massively attentive (I hope) lover will be right back in your arms, until then, just leave him be. #Whatever
9. Give yourself a pat on the back!
My god ladies, if you've managed to do all of the above and your partner doesn't walk over broken glass to see you, then you should probably give him a red card and look for someone who will appreciate you and then some - well done.
10. If all else fails - you are not alone!
Remember, if you really do feel neglected and dejected, you are not alone. Married dating site IllicitEncounters.com, has seen a large increase in its female members in the lead up to the world cup, and is expecting lots more to sign up during the tournament, so if all else fails join in and start #playingaway