How to Make Your Relationship Last

Starting a romantic relationship can be a fun and exciting time. You’re likely thinking about your partner throughout the day, and probably view them as the greatest human being in the whole world. However, the flood of “love hormones” in your brain eventually slows, and the honeymoon period comes to an end. After the initial honeymoon period fades, keeping a relationship going can become hard work. Here are some ways to maintain a healthy, happy, and rewarding long-term relationship.

Communicate Your Feelings & Make Compromises

At some point, you may find yourself angry with your partner. Although this may seem obvious and cliché, good communication is one of the most important ways to manage anger in any relationship. Be honest and open with your partner about what your thoughts and feelings. In a polite and calm manner, let them know if their behaviors are bothering you. However, it’s important to compliment and praise your partner for doing things you appreciate. When you and your partner are both open and honest, you’ll find it easier to make compromises and come to agreements that will keep you both happy.

Try New Things Together

Make time to break away from your daily routine by trying something new or travel to a new place. Find a common hobby you and your partner are both interested in, such as art, biking or gardening. Sharing these types of experiences will refresh and strengthen the bond in your relationship and will provide opportunities to learn new things about each other. Having a partner to share these experiences with can even help some people overcome their own anxieties with trying new things.

Don’t Forget to Make Quality Time for Each Other

Even when you feel swamped by daily commitments and responsibilities, try to make some quality time for your partner. Try to dedicate at least one night per week for spending time with your partner. You can go out for a meal together, or even just relax at home. It doesn’t have to be a big date night every week. To show your partner that they have your full attention, turn off distractions like phones or laptops. When you’re not together, check in with them about how they’ve been. Can’t find something to talk about? Try sharing funny stories from your past week, or bond over fun activities like card games or cooking.

Be Committed to Your Relationship

Commitment is one of the most important factors in any relationship. A person’s ability to devote themselves to their partner and remain loyal often determines whether a relationship will last. Every couple goes through ups and downs, but the most successful couples learn from their low points and come out stronger on the other side.

Don’t Hold Grudges Against Each Other

Remember that not everyone is perfect. Everyone, including your partner, will make a mistake from time to time. Holding grudges for something your partner did in the past will put a strain on your relationship, and may even impact your own health and happiness. You don’t necessarily have to forget what happened, and you don’t have to pretend you’re okay with it, but forgiveness can be powerful. Make sure to address any issues with your partner, find a conclusion, and continue to moving forward.

Like anything else in life, relationships take work, sacrifice, and dedication. If both of you are willing to stick it through the tough times, you will enjoy the benefits of having a lifelong friend and partner.