7 Ways to Make your Relationship Strong
Tina Turner posed a very important question in her famous hit song, “What’s love got to do with it?” Although many would say that love is the foundation of any happy romantic relationship, Tina Turner and many others would argue that love in many instances is simply not enough. In order to have a thriving and healthy relationship, both sides have to be willing to work on it in many different ways. In this blog post we are going to explore what are some of the key ways to keep our relationships strong.
- Put to practice acceptance and appreciation
David Rico best explains what it means to accept and appreciate our partners by describing what that would look like in nature through his book “How to be an Adult in Relationships: The Five Keys to Mindful Loving.” In it he states, “In a true you-and-I relationship, we are present mindfully, non-intrusively, the way we are present with things in nature. We do not tell a birch tree it should be more like an elm. We face it with no agenda, only appreciation.” With what Rico has stated we really have to learn to accept and appreciate our partners for whom and where they are.
- Recognize that all relationship have their highs and their lows
In all relationships there will be ups and downs. So learn to prepare for that ride with your partner.
- Connect with your partner by using the word “We”
Studies have shown that couples who use the word “we” verses “you” or “me” and “I” are generally more satisfied with their relationships because of the connectedness mindset that they feel. It makes them feel more loving and generous.
- Follow the magical 3:1 ratio
Research has shown in order to have a flourishing relationship that is healthy you have to have 3 times more positive experiences with your partner than negative experiences.
- Show physical affection daily to one another
Physical affection has been proven to have a myriad of benefits according to many studies. It releases hormones that make you feel good, it reduces blood pressure, it improves mood, it helps to release stress, and couples tend to be more satisfied in their relationships. I know what everyone is thinking…physical affection doesn’t only entail making it to home run , it also includes all of the bases like kissing, hugging, touching, cuddling, etc.
- Create a couples routine
To strengthen your relationship it is recommended that you create a routine that is just for the two of you. For instance every other Saturday can be date night. Another instance can be walking to the metro together in the mornings if you both are commuting into work via the transit system, or putting aside 10 minutes every night to speak to your partner.
- Set goals as a couple
As a team of two you should both be striving to achieve a set of goals that are important to the both of you together. That way you both can move in the same direction and celebrate together.
To conclude, in order to flourish in a relationship in a loving and healthy way you have to put in the work because it is not just going to happen without it. Try using the 7 tips provided to start strengthening your relationship right away. After all were we all not meant to love and be loved. As always I thank you for reading. Until next time, take care and be true.
