What makes for a healthy romantic relationship differs from couple to couple. Forming a trusting and positive partnership takes effort and time. And unfortunately, it doesn’t just happen overnight. For any relationship to grow strong and stay strong, you need to put in some work. Below are some habits that will help create and maintain a happy and healthy twosome.
Back Up Your Words
As a writer I can tell you that even if you are gifted at putting pen to paper, you won’t be able to make your partner swoon if you don’t put any heart behind the sentiment. Loving words are nice to hear, but small meaningful gestures go a lot further, so back up your loving words with actions. This will maintain and sustain your relationship past initial infatuation. And if you are no Shakespeare when it comes to words, know that a good hug, a lingering kiss or a romantic night for two will mean a lot to them.
Remember That Some Things Never Get Old
There is a misconception that love must always stay fresh and feel new to maintain its spark. That simply isn’t true. Look at it this way: Don’t you have a favorite dessert or meal that hits the right spot and satisfies your cravings every time? How would you feel if someone changed that recipe? You’d probably be more than a little annoyed.
That’s because you love what’s reliable and familiar. Love can be that way too. Whether it’s that midday text just to say “hi,” holding hands while walking, or cuddling in bed as you drift off to sleep, it’s important not to discount the familiar behaviors that make love amazing. Some things never get old, including the old familiar ways we love and are loved.
Don’t Be So Quick to React
Even couples who are deeply in love fight, and fight hard. When we feel attacked, we have the urge to defend ourselves right away. But there’s a better way. Use silence to your advantage instead. When arguing with your partner, don’t respond to their heated words right away. Take a few seconds of silence. This accomplishes a few things:
- It gives your partner a chance to think about what they’ve just said. They may apologize or further explain.
- It shows that you are listening to what they say and not just waiting to react. Your partner will feel heard.
- It gives you time to think about what you want to say. Carefully construct your words.
- It will keep you both on topic, rather than let emotions wildly spin you off topic.
Remember, it’s the Little Things
Remember the little things if you want to build a better relationship. So cancel the 12 dozen roses, the hour-long carriage ride or the serenade from their favorite pop star. Just be loving, consistent and demonstrative in little, familiar ways.
The comparison of love to a favorite dessert that should remain unchanged is interesting. It underscores the value of reliability and consistency in a relationship.
The article makes a good point about the importance of familiar behaviors in a relationship. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday gestures that keep the bond strong.
The emphasis on ‘little things’ resonates with me. Often, grand gestures are fleeting, but small, consistent acts of love make a lasting impact.
The idea of ‘Backing Up Your Words’ with actions is crucial. It’s easy to express feelings verbally, but demonstrating them through consistent actions truly solidifies a relationship.
Taking a moment of silence before reacting in an argument is a practice worth adopting. It can prevent many misunderstandings and foster better communication.