As much as we would like, relationships aren’t always guaranteed for smooth sailing. Sometimes we will run into rough patches. Once the whirlwind romance phase of the relationship is over, reality sets in and we start to notice things that we hadn’t before. Unless you have a strong foundation from the very beginning, your relationship is always going to feel like an uphill battle.
Even after the countless questions, arguments, and contemplations, you’ve still got some work to do. This relationship that you worked so hard to cultivate, you must now maintain it and keep it going in the right direction.
Accepting Change
The way people change and deal with that change will vary from person to person. Some people do much better with it than others, but all the while not truly appreciating that change makes way for personal growth. By being able to adjust and cope with change, whether it is a new routine, new way of approaching a problem, or simply a new way of communicating can be both difficult and crucial. A successful and healthy couple will be able to adapt, support and survive the change together and come out on top.
Affection
Did you know that the act of touching is a fundamental need humans require to maintain our well-being? It can stir several emotions within us that include protection, encouragement, relaxation, and of course, arousal. Even if you are experiencing a lull in your sex life, physical affection is still an important aspect of the relationship.
Communication
If you want a healthy relationship, you will definitely want to maintain healthy communication with your partner. How else would they know that you don’t appreciate the late nights of Madden or the hundreds of dollars spent on handbags unless you tell them? You should be able to always communicate openly, honestly, and respectfully. Of course, when communicating, you should also be listening and processing what you are being told as well.
Conflict
There is going to be some kind of conflict in the relationship because without it, the unspoken problems are going to fester and eventually blow up like a bomb. Arguments are natural and sometimes even a necessity in order to maintain a healthy relationship. It’s an important thing to know how to do—argue effectively—than it is to blindly follow one another without question.
Encouragement
Loving your partner is a given, but it is also important that you respect them and actually like them. You should let your partner know that you enjoy their company and you support them in anything they wish to do. Oh, and never forget the random compliments because we all need a little self-esteem boost every now and then.
Self-Confidence
If you don’t love yourself, how on earth are you going to believe that you deserve someone else’s love? When you love yourself, you are accepting that you have faults and flaws, but you also recognize that you are a worthwhile person and that your partner brings out a light in you that few others are able to do.
Time
When we start to feel comfortable in our relationship, we tend to let that relationship take the back burner so that we can focus on other things that may be going on, like that promotion or a new hobby. While it’s good to have a life outside of the relationship, you never want your partner to feel like there simply isn’t enough time in your day for them.