When it comes to relationships, it can be hard to maintain the kind of healthy love and strong connection that we might have enjoyed in the beginning. In the early days of dating, we tend to make a big effort to impress our new partner, always ready to attend to their needs and desires.
As time goes by, however, these loving habits can fall by the wayside, replaced by distraction and boredom. If a couple is not generous with their time, their relationship is at risk being badly damaged – they could even break up altogether.
So, how can we prevent such unpleasantness from occurring? How can we ensure that intimacy and connection aren’t lost over time? There are actually many ways to attend to our relationships that will cultivate the kind of happy futures we want.
Here are 11 healthy habits that happy couples make sure to include in their relationships:
1. Share gratitude daily.
Your partner knows how much you appreciate them, right? Unfortunately, a lot of the time, this is not the case! If you stop showing gratitude, resentment will soon start to grow inside your partner, leading to conflict later on down the line. The next time your other half makes dinner, show some affection and thank them for their efforts. You might be surprised how much they appreciate it.
2. Communicate with kindness.
Talk to your partner in a way that is both encouraging and caring to let them know that you’re there for them, especially during times of difficulty and stress. Even during an argument, remain respectful of each other’s boundaries and limits. Unkind words stick in our memories as much as loving ones do – use the right words.
3. Work out and stay healthy together.
When we are physically fit, we are more psychologically fit, as well. Happy couples can focus on the strength of their bodies as well as their developing relationships by engaging in fitness activities together. According to Psychology Today, “couples who work out together, stay together,” which was demonstrated by studies showing that couples who regularly trained together reported increased feelings of shared satisfaction and emotional connection.
4. Check in with each other regularly.
Strong couples know that checking in on each other often is key to romantic satisfaction. Depending on your partner’s character, they might cover up how they’re really feeling to keep you from worrying. Offering an opportunity for them to open up can bring you closer while also improving your bond.
5. Seek out new experiences.
It’s important to enjoy a variety of activities – with and without your partner – in order to feel fulfilled. Happy couples, however, also find opportunities to share new experiences. Travel is a great way to find out more about a new place as well as each other. If you’re staying closer to home, why not take up a new hobby together? Who knows what you could discover!
6. Laugh together.
Sharing humor is vital to relationship happiness. Find opportunities to joke around together every day, especially during times of crisis or stress. Not only will laughter release happy chemicals in your body, it will also draw you closer together as you bond over a good laugh.
7. Offer cuddles and affection.
Being hands-on and physically affectionate helps our partners know we are still attracted to them; the same is true with offering reassurance when it’s necessary. Body language makes up a big part of our total communication with each other. Happy couples remember to be loving in every way, including physically.
8. Flirt with each other.
No matter how long you’ve been together, some flirtation is never a bad idea. Keep the excitement alive by flirting regularly, both at home and when you’re out together. Find excuses to share a sexy sentiment or leave a romantic note for them to find. You’ll be amazed at their response to your flirtatiousness.
9. Plan for the future.
Keep your dreams and ambitions alive by regularly discussing your plans for the future. Be open-minded to your partner’s suggestions, making sure to really listen to and understand their inner desires. Whether it’s planning a trip you’ll take someday, a little sexual exploration, or simply a few meals for the week ahead, do it as a team! Build the life you dream of together, down to the fine details (career choices, having kids, a new house, and hobbies).
10. Do chores together.
Taking care of your home shouldn’t feel like an annoyance to argue over. By sharing the chores fairly and working together to get through your to-do list (making sure to share some humor and flirtation, as we’ve mentioned), you’ll soon look forward to tackling the chores together. You know what they say, “Happy home, happy love!”
11. Give each other space.
When we are overwhelmed or stressed out, we are not the best versions of ourselves. Taking time to reflect for a little while if a conflict arises allows you to come back together in a calmer frame of mind. Your partner may need more time alone than you; just respect their wishes and always be there for them when they’re ready to talk.
No relationship is spotless or perfect. It’s not a checklist of happy moments to cross off or achieve. It is a journey of discovery; it’s about more than the ultimate destination. You both need to make conscious adjustments over time as your relationship progresses, strengthening your connection. What is most important is that you are committed to remaining a loving team.
Fundamentally, a healthy couple is made up of individuals who can appreciate what the other person brings to the table. You have a unique set of skills, interests, passions, and gifts to offer a relationship. The same is true for your partner. Take the time to hear each other out, while creating regular opportunities for quality time and affection.
Enjoy the process of learning about one another as you grow closer together over time. With this article’s tips tucked away in your relationship toolkit, you’re all set for a healthy and happy future with the one you love. What are you waiting for? Start using these simple-but-powerful methods today if you want to enjoy the kind of relationship the two of you truly deserve. You’ve got this!
