People in a long-lasting relationship can tell you it takes commitment and effort to make it work. After all, when the butterflies wear off, the real effort begins. A high level of commitment is vital to success.
Like most couples, when you say, “I do.” the plan is to follow through. So what is it that gets in the way of people being able to stick together through thick and thin? It seems like too many couples wind up feeling dissatisfied with the relationship. So, what can you do to keep the satisfaction level higher than the level of disappointment?
Let’s talk about some of the best tips that can help your relationship last forever.
How Do You Handle Conflict Within Your Relationship?
If you are in a relationship, at some point, there will be a difference in perspective. It’s often said, “It’s not about if you have conflict, it’s how you handle it.” As two people come together as one, differences will become more apparent. However, it doesn’t have to be divisive. How you handle issues can make or break the success of your relationship.
Here are some tips that can help you resolve issues and strengthen your relationship:
When you argue, try to remain focused on the issue at hand. It’s easy to get caught up in past matters, especially if there are unresolved emotions tied to them.
As conflict arises, focus on how you feel. Using “I” statements rather than “You” statements can keep both of you from feeling defensive. For example, you can say, “I don’t feel like I’m being heard.” rather than “You make me so mad.” So, you’re still identifying the issue, but you’re talking about yourself. In other words, “I” statements keep you from blaming your partner for the way you’re feeling.
Check your body language. Are you making eye contact while your partner is reading a text from a co-worker? Are you rolling your eyes and crossing your arms? Body language can send a message as loud as you’re verbally speaking. So, next time conflict arises, focus on the message you may be sending through your body language.
Couples in a healthy relationship see an issue, work toward a solution, and keep their words and focus directed on the problem. With practice, this pattern of communication can help you overcome conflict. As a result of good communication, you can strengthen your relationship.
Three Simple Words Can Help Strengthen Your Relationship
It’s true, the words “I love you” can help strengthen your relationship. However, those are not the three words we’re talking about today. Instead, we’re suggesting the use of the words “Can I help?” This simple phrase seems to indicate a partnership.
Asking “Can I help?” is a great way to help lighten each other’s load. As a result, satisfaction within your relationship can increase as you put each other’s needs first.
Strengthen Your Relationship By Sharing Household Duties
Do you feel like you have an equal partner in the relationship? Many couples run into contention when establishing household duties. For example, it no longer seems that the social standard places the responsibility of household chores solely on the woman. As you share tasks around the house, you can maintain the feeling of partnership.
Our tip: share the responsibilities of housework every day, not just every once in a while.
How Much Time Do You Schedule to Work on Your Relationship?
For many couples, it may seem next to impossible to schedule a weekly date night. However, many studies show nurturing your relationship is vital to longevity.
It would be ideal to schedule a weekly date night. Like many couples, COVID-19 restrictions may have interrupted your normal routine. After all, where do you go when so many places are shut down? Besides going on a ride together, or finding a place to hike, you can also have dates at home. With some creativity, you can still share meaningful time together and make long-lasting memories. One idea is to plan a night to stay up together after the kids have gone to bed. At that time, put your phones away and turn off the tv. Instead, meet in the kitchen to bake cookies or play a board game together. As a result, the focus shifts to each other rather than on the latest social media post.
All relationships will have conflict at one time or another. The key to success is how you handle and overcome those issues.
If your relationship is lacking in healthy communication, we can help. At Fort Worth Counseling and Intervention, we help couples strengthen their relationships. We can help you overcome the stumbling blocks that are leading to contention. Call us today.
