- Trust is the foundation for a strong relationship
Think about all the people you know that question their partners about every little detail of the day. Trust is vital for any relationship to become strong and everlasting.
2. Honesty IS the best policy
Even white lies eventually turn into big lies that forever need to be covered up. Lies are like a poisonous gas that will silently kill any relationship. Never lie!
3. Spend quality time together
Small acts can go a long way. Use dinner time to have meaningful discussions with the TV and both phones turned off. Afterwards, take a nightly walk together then relax and watch something on Netflix. Also, don’t forget to schedule that occasional date night.
4. Continue to be best friends
You started out as friends and you should continue to cultivate your friendship. Take the time to discuss the good and the bad that each day brings your way. The more you communicate, the closer friends you become.
5. Communication is crucial
Communication is a vital success factor in any relationship. How else are you supposed to know what your partner is thinking or what is going on in their lives? Couples in successful relationships consistently express their love for each other, complement one another frequently, and never avoid discussing difficult issues.
6. It takes work—set goals
Establish personal and companionship goals. Whether it’s financial or a special romantic vacation—see those goals through to fruition and then celebrate together. Achieving a couple’s goal is a key success factor and an excellent bonding experience.
7. It takes two to Tango
Look for common ground during arguments. It doesn’t matter who is to blame. You have too many other things to worry about. Not every couple is going to agree on everything.
8. Never go to sleep during a heated argument
Make every possible effort to resolve the disagreement before going to sleep or at the very least, never go to bed angry with each other.
9. Don’t cause a disturbance
Yelling, throwing, hitting objects or storming out of a room and slamming a door will only exacerbate a negative situation. Don’t make a scene. Find ways to release tension and calm down (i.e., exercise, walk around the block or simply let some time elapse) then gently discuss the issue.
10. Don’t dwell on negative scenarios from the past
Raising issues from the past will only cause friction and make the current situation worse. Don’t go there. You don’t need to rehash the past, deal with the present.
11. Choose your words carefully—Respect your partner at all times
Just like choosing words carefully in the workplace there is no difference here—be politically astute! Don’t mock or belittle. Be kind, soft-spoken, well-mannered, don’t talk negatively to friends and family about your relationship and never threaten to leave. Treat your partner as you wish to be treated.
12. Forgiveness is essential
Forgive your partner’s harsh or offensive words every now and then. As long as this does not happen daily or even weekly, find it in your heart to forgive your partner.
13. Really listen to your partner
Don’t interrupt, even if it’s a heated discussion. Give your partner your full attention and really try to understand your partner’s perspective. There is nothing more annoying than talking to someone’s back.
14. Don’t just blurt out a problem—provide a solution first
For example, don’t just blame your partner for not cooking. Rather, schedule a time for the both of you to cook together.
15. Manage yourself, not your partner
Worry about yourself and be the best you can be. The more efficient you become, the more productive you will be, leaving you with more time for one another.
16. Sex…
It’s important to maintain your sex life and keep it interesting, spontaneous and unpredictable. Don’t just do it for the sake of doing it.
17. Display appreciation—honor your partner with love every day
It does not take much effort—do things you know your partner enjoys. Whether it’s romantic words, flowers, love notes, cards, quality time, acts of kindness, or physical touch, “show” your special someone you love them.
18. Don’t compare your life to others
We tend to compare our relationships to those of others. This is made easier than ever with social media. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Focus on your relationship!
19. Maintain your own identity
Everyone knows spending quality time together is important, but spending time apart is important too. Keep your own interests and continuously develop yourself.
20. Bring your partner into your world
Make every attempt to summarize your responsibilities/tasks to your partner. For example, if you’re managing the finances for the household, always update your partner. Create a formal spreadsheet that you can review together at least monthly.
To reiterate a very important message: after you’ve established a strong relationship, always proactively manage it. Just because things are going well today doesn’t mean they will remain that way. Things can change suddenly and could cost you dearly if you are not prepared.
