Tip #1: Communication
In all relationships communication is critical. Without communication the relationship will quickly fall apart. The forgotten art form of communicating leads to the doom of many relationships. You can improve your relationship by simply opening up with your partner and expressing your concerns. Do not forcefully put over your argument, but calmly discuss the issues and keep an open mind when listening. Do not take it as a personal attack of your character, but instead listen and try to understand the point of view of your partner. After your partner has finished expressing their view, you’ll now have your chance to explain your side.
Communicating should always be the first step.
Tip #2: Attraction
We all take for granted that physical attraction plays a vital role in a relationship. What many of us do is get extremely comfortable and let ourselves go. Remember, in most instances your partner was first attracted to you based on your physical appearance. It’s very important that you do your best to uphold your physical attractiveness. If you were in good shape when you met, and then let yourself get a “beer belly” within a few months of being married, then you cannot expect your spouse to respond favorably. Yes they can understand, but it’s also important that you also take initiative and do your best to keep yourself in good shape and looking attractive. It’s important so that your partner doesn’t start to get wandering eyes.
Tip #3: Change As Needed
This goes along with tip #1 which discussed that communication is important to improve your relationship. If you truly listened to your partner and understood the problem they are having with the relationship, then now is the time to put forth the effort to change as needed. It’s one thing to communicate; it’s another to put into action what was discussed. Do not forget this step.
Tip #4: Expectations
There is no fairy tale, let’s make that perfectly clear. The most perfect of relationships will have problems. Most couples when faced with their first real issue believe that it’s all over and the relationship is doomed. It’s in these times that you need to realize and have a realistic view of what comes along with being in a relationship. The only persons that can make a relationship work are the two people involved, so therefore you need to be up front with each other, understanding that you’ll have your good days and bad days, and learn from them.
Tip #5: Be the Rock
A relationship can fail if one person believes they are pulling too much weight. It’s important that as a partner you take turns being each other’s rock. You need to be there to support each other, through the ups and downs that are brought about through life experiences. By giving more, you inevitably will get more in return. Being each other’s support and foundation, can lead to a strong bond that will keep the relationship afloat.
Tip #6: Be Forgiving
In every relationship each partner will make mistakes. You’ll have to be forgiving to ensure the survival of the relationship. Don’t hold grudges – just let it go. Without forgiveness your relationship cannot survive. It’s human nature to be prone to making poor decisions, but to make your relationship work, you’ll need to forgive your partner; otherwise the relationship will fail.
