Marriages that have been successful for decades do not have a secret formula. Relationships that are meant to last will take quite a bit of work. The largest area that newly married couples or those beginning a relationship have is compromising. You can go and do as you please without letting anyone know when you are single but this changes immensely when in a committed relationship. You do not need to know where your significant other is during every point in the day but checking in usually occurs. Below are a few more areas that nearly all couples can improve to make their relationship stronger and happier.
Communication
Communication is key in all relationships whether they are personal or professional. There are going to be things that bother you and it is best to confront them rationally. Being able to talk through issues will avoid any huge fights where things are said that cannot be taken back. Letting things that bother you continue that could easily be prevented can lead to resentment. Sitting down each day at dinner to truly talk about how the day went can be enough. A partner is usually the person that someone gripes about their annoying coworker or unreasonable manager. Listen intently as what is important to them should also be important to you.
Shying Away from Long-Term Commitment
Shying away from long-term commitment is a staple of those relationships that have gone on for a decade without mentioning marriage. There is nothing wrong with this as marriage is not for everyone but it could indicate fear of commitment. Talking about long-term plans can provide clarity that your significant other has a far different vision of the future. Children are usually a dealbreaker so discuss this when it becomes a reasonable option as not wanting children can be a dealbreaker in a relationship.
Trouble Showing Appreciation
Showing appreciation for your significant other does not always require a lavish gift which will be discussed below. A small gesture like making different or cleaning the home/cooking a great dinner unexpectedly is a person example. Small things like buying flowers or a 6-pack on the way home will work wonders. Building a relationship based on appreciating all your partner brings to the table will be a strong one. Houston couples activities make traveling with your girlfriend very enjoyable.
The truth is that gifts can work to show appreciation but remember you cannot buy your way into a healthy relationship. Finding the best jewelers in Raleigh or Austin should only take a simple Google search. A pair of earrings or another piece of jewelry that is made custom will be great as it is a truly unique item. You may even bring your partner to an ear piercing salon, get their ears pierced and pick out new earrings. Go to a luxury jeweler rather than a chain jewelry store where many of the pieces are produced in mass. Getting a piece of collegiate themed jewelry can be a great gift for someone that looks back at their time fondly at their alma mater.
Do Not Do EVERYTHING Together!
Couples that do everything together become very dependent on the other person to do anything. Your relationship can be great and you can still go out with friends or take part in hobbies you enjoy. A good balance will allow you to appreciate your partner while still doing things that you enjoy. Far too many couples spend every waking hour together which simply is not healthy. Plan a few things with friends weekly to make sure you are not abandoning your other relationships.
Relationships take work regardless of how they appear in the movies or on television. Some take more than others but you owe it to yourself to try to be the best partner possible.