Add variety to your life
Studies have shown that
dullness can lead to dissatisfaction with a relationship. Trying
something new can be as simple as visiting an unfamiliar restaurant or
as grand as a backpacking trip through Sri Lanka. Discoveries you make
together will keep you feeling close.
Play together, stay together
Find a sport or
hobby that you both love and make that a priority in your relationship.
Trekking, biking, tennis... whatever it is, find something you enjoy
doing together.
Talk!
In other words: communicate. Talking out
the tough subjects—money, religion, fidelity, raising kids—will not be
the most fun you’ve had, but it’ll be valuable.
There’s no shame in seeking therapy
Studies show
that couples who seek counselling during rocky periods are more
successful in resolving their issues than those who don’t. Whether it’s
from a counsellor or mental health professional, getting an expert to
help sort out strife is very wise.
Keep your eyes on the prize
Yes, he forgot your
friend’s name for the nth time, but it doesn’t mean he doesn’t care
about you. If you keep your perspective fixed on the goal—to be in a
happy, functioning partnership—you’re less likely to get tangled up in
every minor annoyance. Remember, you both want the same thing—love and
happiness.
Two heads are better than one
Being in a
relationship means you’ve made a merger. You’ve not only joined assets
but inherited the other’s problems as well. Rather than looking at his
problems as merely his own, tackle them together. So if he’s gaining
weight, rather than pushing him to diet on his own, enroll in a gym
together.
I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine
No one
likes demands, but everyone can appreciate a compromise. If you want
your partner to do something and you’re not sure he’ll agree, the
quickest way to avoid a confrontation is to sweeten the deal. For
example: “Sure, I’ll watch the cricket match on Monday if you take me to
see the next movie of my choice.”
Fight right
In order to have productive
arguments, keep these rules in mind: Don’t call your spouse names. When
things get really tough, take a break from the argument. Let the other
person finish his/her sentences. Don’t initiate a discussion when you’re
angry.
Mind your manners
“Please”, “thank you” and
“you’re welcome” can go a long way in helping your partner remember that
you respect and love each other and don’t take them for granted.
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