10 Commandments of a Happy, Long-Lasting Relationship
If other couples can, why can’t you? Starting and building an intimate relationship is hard, but keeping it is much harder. However, there are ways to deal with the difficulties and make your relationship last.
1. Be realistic – there’s no perfect relationship, only perfect moments.
Most people set extremely high expectations when it comes to love. Blame it on the films and fairy tales, but in reality, there is no such thing as “perfect relationship”. Even the happiest and oldest couples in the world have their own sad stories to tell. What matters most is that despite any differences, you both strive hard to create perfect moments that you will cherish for the rest of your lives.
2. Be true about your feelings. Say it even if it hurts.
Unexpressed frustrations and disappointments can pile up overtime and topple down on the two of you. If you have concerns about your partner, say it. Even if you know it’s going to hurt him or her. Serious conversations don’t have to end in a boxing match though. Talk it over a cup of coffee.
3. The day is too long to sleep with problems unsettled.
One of the keys to a long-term relationship is making sure problems are settled as soon as possible. Don’t sleep without fixing any issue you had for the day. But of course, there are issues that were not built overnight and can’t be resolved overnight either. Nevertheless, both of you should put effort into patching up the holes and solidifying your relationship.
4. Don’t ask for something you cannot give.
Don’t ask your hubby to stay faithful when you yourself are not being faithful. A relationship is a two-way street. Both of you have roles to play and responsibilities to bear. If you want your partner to stay honest, loving, and understanding, make sure you are also willing to become that kind of person for him or her.
5. Arguments are part of a strong, healthy relationship.
Arguing is part of what it means to be together. It’s normal to quarrel at times and disagree with certain things. Conflicts are not meant to bring harm to your relationship, rather make it stronger. But often, misunderstandings and fights can lead to disasters. But remember rule number 3? Don’t hold grudges. Settle the issues as soon as possible. Couples who have poor conflict resolution skills get mad easily and tend to hold resentment against their partner for years. If you wish to stay together longer, both of you should learn how to resolve problems as they arise.
6. Let the little things go.
We said arguing is fine. But too much of it can stress you out. Okay – he’s 10 minutes late, he painted the wall with the colour you dislike, the dish she prepared is too salty, etc. Will these little flaws have to stimulate hours of quarrel? There are things that you should just ignore. Otherwise, they can hit back on your relationship.
7. Don’t fight, rather agree on financial matters.
One of the leading causes of divorce is money. Maybe she’s overspending again, or he is not making enough. Fights over money are not really about the money in the first place. Normally, it’s more about how money is perceived and handled. If you have monetary issues in your relationship, talk about them and try to resolve the conflicts. Formulate a viable financial plan with your partner and stick with it. Seek counselling if needed. Consulting a professional often helps.
8. Once in a while, try something new and different. It adds “spice” to your relationship.
Boredom and over-familiarity are often the most common issues confronted by couples who have been together for years. And sometimes, they lead to more serious problems. Happy couples never get bored with each other. Why? It’s because they always do something different and extraordinary. Instead of the usual dinner date in the usual restaurant, why not stay at home and cook together? Instead of watching films on an ordinary Saturday, why not go somewhere you’ve never been to? Plan a grand vacation together, at least once or twice a year. Travel to the best beaches, resorts, and hot spots within your country or abroad. It’s a great time to create perfect moments!
9. No matter what, respect.
They say you can have respect without love, but you can never love without respecting the other person. If you respect your partner, you are less likely to do things that will hurt him or her. Respect is a virtue that many people often overlook. Don’t let this disappear from your relationship.
10. Keep the fire burning.
What separates marriage from other forms of relationship is “intimacy”. Being intimate is not limited to hugging, kissing, or having sex. It also has emotional, intellectual and spiritual aspects that have to be met. Strive to be sweet, endearing and romantic to your significant half, even if you are naturally not that type of person. Remember, you are no longer living alone. For a long-lasting relationship, you have to keep the fire burning. It will serve as the light that will guide and keep you warm for the coming years.
©Copyright 2012 by http://www.NaturalTherapyForAll.com Acupuncture Sheffield - All Rights Reserved.