Often, it’s the simple things that keep couples satisfied in their relationships. Create healthy habits that will help you grow closer as a couple and maintain a happy relationship that stands the test of time.
1. Enjoy Meals Together
Set aside time each day to eat at least one meal together. Turn off the TV and use the time to talk about your day. Creating this daily ritual ensures that you’ll take time out of your fast-paced lives each day to connect with one another. Cooking, eating, and cleaning up together can be a great time to squeeze in some much-needed time together as a couple.
2. Ask For What You Need
Part of being in a committed relationship means you shouldn’t be completely independent anymore. Instead, it’s important to be able to ask for help and tell your partner what you need. When your partner meets those needs, it helps you grow closer as a couple.
3. Love Your Partner According to Your Partner’s Needs
Remember that what you consider to be loving behavior may not feel like love to your spouse. For example, perhaps a husband thinks he’s showing love by doing the laundry each night, but instead of feeling loved, his wife may be wondering why he’s not choosing to spend time with her. Find out what makes your spouse feel loved so you can show your love in a way that it will be well-received.
4. Set Aside Quality Time For Each Other
Today’s world can be very chaotic at times. Don’t forget to set aside quality time to nurture your relationship. Schedule regular date nights and other time to be alone together. Spending quality time together on a regular basis helps couples maintain emotional intimacy.
5. Plan a Weekend Get-Away at Least Once a Year
Getting away from the rest of the world at least once a year can do wonders for a relationship. It doesn’t have to be extravagant or expensive, but it can make a big difference in the health of your relationship. Make your weekend away a priority each year. Take turns planning your weekends each year to surprise one another or plan your weekends together as a couple.
6. Unplug From Technology
Shut off your cell phone, laptop, and TV so you can devote your undivided attention to your partner. If you’re texting at the dinner table or sending emails while your partner’s talking, you’ll harm your communication. Treat your partner with respect by offering your undivided attention.
7. Maintain Privacy but Avoid Secrecy
Everyone needs some level of privacy, however, secrecy should have no place in a relationship. Your partner doesn’t need an all-access pass to everything you own, but if you’re hiding specific things because you know your partner would be angry, it can mean trouble for the relationship. Healthy relationships shouldn’t include harmful secrets.
8. Don’t Expect Your Partner to Meet All Your Needs
It’s impossible for your partner to meet all of your needs all the time. If you expect your partner to always be able to do so, you’ll likely be disappointed often. Your relationships with friends, family members, and co-workers should meet some of your unmet social and emotional needs.
9. Deal with Issues as They Arise
Deal with problems in your relationship as they arise. If you don’t, you risk keeping score or growing resentful. If you’re angry or upset by your partner’s behavior, talk about it when you’re feeling calm. Holding onto your anger or frustration may cause you to eventually explode and say things you don’t necessarily mean.
10. Offer Compliments Liberally
Praise and compliment your partner every single day. Offer words of encouragement and support regularly. Make sure that you are genuine with your words and keep focused on the positive things your partner does.
