We
live in a time when people change relationships more often than they
change hairstyles. Some people would call them disposable. Easy come.
Easy go. But, what happens, when you think you've found the one. You
know, the one they wrote epic poems about long ago. The one that makes
every other relationship pale by comparison -- at least as far as your
relationship experiences are concerned. How do you hold on to this
special relationship while so many other couples are unable to make it
work?
The key word here is work. You have to work at making
relationships last. Fortunately for you, these six secrets for
relationship success don't always feel like the hard work they are.
1)
Communicate. You have to communicate effectively with each other. That
doesn’t simply mean you have to talk to each other. You have to also
understand each other and be on the same page about many things in your
relationships and in the lives you build together.
2) Connect.
The physical connection between couples is vital to relationship
longevity. It goes beyond what takes place in the bedroom however. You
really do need the connection of human touch to help solidify your bond.
Cuddle together on the couch, hold hands in the theater, and hug each
other as often as possible. The more you touch, in a genuine and
affectionate manner, generally speaking, the happier you are together.
3)
Find common ground. Every relationship needs a little common ground.
These are the areas where the two of you have shared convictions.
Sometimes these convictions are based on morals or religion. Other times
they're related to causes or politics. Whatever your shared convictions
may be, it's a wise plan to cultivate that common ground and grow
together.
4) Shared interests. This is a little different than
common ground. Your interests don't have to be on the same scale.
However, if you both love the ocean you might find that buying a
sailboat, for instance, is a great way to feed the love of sailing the
open seas for one while feeding the love of water and sunshine for the
other. You both love the ocean and sailing gives you an opportunity to
enjoy the thing you both love together.
5) Companionship. You
must spend time together if your relationship is going to work.
Otherwise there really isn't a relationship to cultivate. Time is
critical. Finding positive ways to spend your time together, even in
troubling times, is a great way to build a stronger relationship
together -- especially if you're both committed to the cause of making
your relationship last.
6) Time apart. While it's important to
spend time as a couple in order to cultivate and grow the relationship,
it's also important to enjoy a little time outside of your partner's
company. You both need friends on the side for blowing off steam, wise
counsel, and a little break from the intensity of the relationship.
These
six secrets may not look like all that much on a piece of paper, but
over the years, they will all make a huge difference in the strength and
resilience of your relationship together. Keep them in mind at all
times for best results.
