Everybody wants to make their relationship stronger and healthier, but many people don’t know how to do that. Many couples sometimes find themselves working against one another when times are rough. Financial issues are the number one cause of fights and divorces. Making a relationship strong is not always easy, but the advantages of keeping a long-term, committed relationship outweigh the problems and difficulties that you face. Here are a few effective ways to keep your relationship strong.
1. STOP ARGUING OVER MONEY
As I mentioned above, finances is one of the greatest causes of fights. Although we are in a recession now, you and your partner should stop arguing over money to keep your relationship strong. Don’t complain and don’t bicker. Think together about things you spend on, how you could make more money and how you can save. Work together and your relationship will be much stronger.
2. BE MORE AFFECTIONATE
To keep your relationship stronger you should be more affectionate and bear in mind why you love your boyfriend or husband. Don’t forget to tell him that you miss or love him. You can choose something that you know he will like at the supermarket, or give him a massage.
3. MAKE YOUR PARTNER A PRIORITY
Give your relationship a priority in order to keep it strong and healthy. Sure, it will not be your top priority all the time. You will have some situations where your children need to come first, or where you should pay more attention to your career. Even if your relationship cannot be your number one priority, it should always be a priority. Devote your time to your partner, when possible. Be thoughtful, attentive and focus on your relationship. If your phone rings in the middle of a conversation, ignore it – you can call back later.
4. RESPECT EACH OTHER WHEN YOU ARGUE
No one wants to argue, however it’s a part of life. When you argue with your partner, make sure you do it well. Try to listen to one another and don’t interrupt. You should hear each other and try to understand each other no matter what.
5. SHARE THINGS WITH YOUR PARTNER
A common relationship complaint is that your partner withdraws. It can be because he is upset or stressed, or he is worrying about something. Try to talk to him and ask him to share his problems with you. You should also share your love, fear, worries and responsibilities with your partner. Even if your partner can’t help you, he will appreciate the fact that you trust him.
6. BE FRIENDS
Just because you are a couple, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be friends as well. Don’t say things that you would never say to your close friend. Spend some quality time together having fun, so that your relationship does not become all about the seriousness.
7. DON’T GET UPSET OVER TRIFLES
I cannot remember how many times I have asked my husband not to leave his socks all over the house, or wash his dish after breakfast or dinner when I’m very busy. I cannot also remember how many times my husband has asked me to not forget to turn the heating off, but I often forget about it. We never argue about such small things, though. If you’re angry at him, take a deep breath and exhale your anger out. The trifles are not worth getting frustrated over.
Sure, there are many other ways to keep your relationship strong and healthy, but these are very important to keep in mind. These ways don’t require much effort or time, only thoughtfulness. What do you do to keep your relationship strong? Share your tips with us, please.