5 Simple and Effective Ways to Improve Your Relationship
After a long time of Tindering and Netflix and chilling, you’ve finally found your bae.
Things are going well. But, of course, any relationship can hit a snag once in a while. Couples bicker. They disagree and they get frustrated with one another. We’re all human.
So, what do you do when the honeymoon is over and things start to get real?
Here are 5 effective ways to improve your relationship and rekindle the flame!
1. Listen
If you’re wondering how to better your relationship, first things first: It’s time to be a good listener.
Your partner’s feelings are just as important as yours. By demonstrating that you care, you’ll further open up the lines of communication. And there’s no better way to do this than to listen and let your partner speak.
2. Be Positive
During an argument, it’s easy to get caught up in negative thoughts and frustrations. But allowing yourself to spiral down in negativity won’t get you anywhere.
Instead of making a negative comment to your partner, turn it into something positive.
Let’s say you’re frustrated that your partner forgot to do the dishes. Rather than saying, “You didn’t do the dishes”, offer to dry the dishes while he or she washes them. Not only does this get the dishes washed. It gives you and your partner bonding time and something to laugh at.
Sometimes you may feel tempted to bring up things in the past to further and validate your point. But to truly move forward and better your relationship, you need to let go of the past.
3. Have Constructive Arguments
Are you trying to understand how to save a relationship that’s falling apart? Are you and partner constantly arguing and fighting?
Constructive arguments are possible. Not raising your voice and letting your partner know that you want to listen is a great start. If you both feel the need to vent your frustrations, only allow yourself 10 minutes to do so.
After some breathing time, remind your partner that you want to move past this. Then, you can both work on doing so together. Treat your partner the same way you’d show respect and kindness to a friend.
4. Rediscover the Love
A relationship can turn monotonous and mundane after some time. It’s natural to happen and get caught up in your daily routine.
But it’s also important to show your partner that you’re actively dedicated.
Unplug from your technology and immerse yourself in your partner’s company. Go for a walk together and sit in the park. Sit across from each other over a cup of coffee and share a treat together.
Detach yourselves from what you’re used to. By trying new things together, you open up the relationship in new ways.
5. Seek Outside Support
Talking about your relationship will take the weight off your shoulders. Your friends and family may be able to offer some perspective you otherwise wouldn’t see.
Encourage your partner to do the same. It’s important to take a breather from one another once in a while – especially after things get heated.
Couples counseling is also a reasonable means of working on your relationship. Before making an appointment with a therapist, try seeking out advice online.
There are lots of resources out there that can help you. There are even programs like OurRelationship that can teach you better communication skills.
There’s no shame in admitting and accepting when you and your partner need outside help.
Discover More Ways to Improve Your Relationship
If you’re wondering how to save a relationship that’s falling apart, we hear you. It can feel unsettling and even scary to think your relationship may be on the rocks.
These 5 ways to improve your relationship make for a good start. Maintain the momentum by setting intentions and keeping the lines of communication open.
As you work on your romantic relationship, don’t forget to show yourself some self-love, too. Not only for the sake of your own health and wellness but for your partner’s, as well. For more ideas on how to practice self-love, check out our blog!