What activities do you both enjoy? Instead of going out to eat and staying quiet what kind of things might engage the two of you? My boyfriend and I signed up for a two-night art class and we are really quite excited. What about simply going for a walk? Maybe a sporting event? Perhaps you might join him in something that interests him then encouraging him to do the same for you. If those dinners out are a problem, then what I am saying is avoid them. Heck, what about cooking a meal together?

I go to his motorcycle club meetings (a veteran's charity) even though I'm not much interested (actually I am anxious at them but I go because it's important). In turn he comes with me to my favourite sporting events. I volunteer with him for his charity and in turn he came camping with me. I don't necessarily enjoy myself all the time but doing something together - and making concessions - is important.