Those who maintain in solid, healthy partnerships report a greater sense of happiness and personal wellbeing. They can even live longer. A sucessful relationship can be the source of a lot of joy and fulfillment. However, satisfying and safe relationships do not happen by chance. It takes work to keep a relationship healthy and happy. If you’d like to strengthen your own relationships, whether they’re romantic or platonic, these tips can help.
Make It Special
The start of a successful relationship, just after you got set up on a blind date by mutual friends or found success with Los Angeles matchmaking services, are meant to be thrilling and romantic as you discover all the things there are to love about your partner. Over time, some of that thrill eventually fades and is replaced by a deeper, calmer love.
Though it starts to wane naturally, it’s still an important factor in a successful relationship long after the initial butterflies have worn off. Go out of your way to shake off any stagnant energy and continue to do things that remind the both of you how special the other person is. Plan little dates, pick up their favorite foods at the grocery store, send meaningful messages during their work day and make a point to tell your partner how you feel as smitten as the day you met.
Listen Well
Communication is crucial for a healthy relationship, and listening is an essential skill to develop in order to make things work between the two of you in the long term. Rather than listening to your partner with an intent to respond, sit back and let them have the floor while you practice active listening skills.
When your partner talks to you, repeat back what you’ve heard to make sure you’re understanding them correctly, validate their feelings and ask thoughtful questions. The more your partner feels that you’re seeking to understand their point of view, the safer and closer they will feel to you.
Try New Things Together
Every relationship hits a wall where it may feel like you’ve done all there is to do and there are very few new-to-you experiences to be had. When this happens, you just need to get a little creative. Novelty is incredibly important in a relationship. The two of you can start a new hobby together, find a new band, read a new book, start a new show or play a new game. Don’t be afraid to step a little outside of your comfort zone. You never know what will be your next favorite thing to do together.
Support Your Partner
It’s easy to buoy your partner in the easier times, but when things get tough is when your partner needs you the most. Love them through their flaws and demonstrate that you’ll stand by their side even in their weakest moments. Take the time to express through both words and actions that you want to help them be the best version of themselves that they can be.
Learn to Apologize
When a loved one does something hurtful, whether it’s intentional or not, it can be devastating. Even if you don’t mean to hurt your partner, learning to apologize and show up for them when they are feeling hurt or burdened is one of the most important things you can do to establish trust and regard with your partner. It’s more important for you to create a sense of safety and care in your relationship than it is to be stubborn or right.
Get Some Space For a Successful Relationship
Surprisingly, one of the best things you can do for your successful relationship is to spend time away from your partner. It’s important that both of you have independent lives characterized by personal hobbies and a sense of balance. Plus, absence makes the heart grow fonder, so when you do spend time together again, it will only feel all the more satisfying.
