10 Things All Happy Couples Do
Every relationship is different. Each has its own quirks. Each has its own ups and downs. But happy couples - those who do this relationship thing better than everyone else - do these things:
They communicate. All the time.
They key to a happy and stable relationship is communication. Set aside a few minutes a day to just talk. About anything. Keep each other in the loop about your daily activities. Talk about things that make you happy. Talk about the things that bother you. Communication is a form of bonding, so make sure you always find time to just talk.
They know how to listen.
With communicating comes having to listen. Are you really paying attention to your partner or are you just waiting for your turn to talk? Listen to their thoughts. Listen to their feelings. No matter how mundane of a thing it is, listen. Giving your partner your undivided attention while they're expressing themselves (without putting in your own two cents) makes them feel important. It shows that their feelings are as important as your own.
They don't hold grudges.
Arguments are inevitable. Having a few disagreements here and there is actually part of a healthy relationship. But as soon as you kiss and makeup, it's important that you learn the notion of forgiving and forgetting. Never hold grudges. Don't hold your partner accountable for something wrong they've done in the past.
They are honest with each other.
If you really love each other, you should always be truthful. Even if what you have to say isn't really flattering. Openness and honesty nurtures a relationship. Learn how to authentically express yourself.
They make each other laugh.
Try not to take everything too seriously. Understand your partner's sense of humor. Know which things would cheer them up after a down day. When things get a little rough, they're going to need you to make them smile and perk them up.
They reassure each other.
Even if you are confident that your relationship is healthy and strong, make it a point to still reassure each other from time to time. It doesn't have to be through grand gestures. It could be little things like an out-of-the blue, "I love you", or a 30-second hug. Frequent reassurance makes your partner feel safe and relaxed.
They support each other.
The best thing you can do as a partner is to be their support system. Encourage them to reach their dreams and aspirations no matter what it is. Even if it may seem unrealistic, support them. Be excited for your partner's achievements as if they're your own. Help each other grow.
They value alone time.
Spending time away from each other (within reason of course) is just as important as spending time with each other. Do your own thing. Let yourselves miss each other. Don't always depend on your partner for your happiness. Allow yourselves to be individuals too.
They try new things together.
It's nice to have a routine, but it doesn't hurt to try a couple of new things together. Go on a spontaneous trip. Book tables in restaurants you haven't tried. Constantly look for things to spice things up.
They know how to compromise.
Compromise is an inherent part of a relationship. You can't always get what you want. When you and your partner reach a disagreement, learn how to compromise. It's all about finding the right balance. There will be times when the both of you have to make sacrifices in order to make things work. And that's okay.