Being in a relationship can sometimes feel like more work than play and there may be days when the bad seems to outweigh the good. But the most important element in a successful relationship is learning how to work through the tough spots. Arguments are inevitable but just because you and your significant other disagree doesn't mean you're doomed for splitsville.
- Make sure you know the skills to have a healthy conflict. When a couple is able to do this, they can actually have a more intimate relationship. So an argument from time to time can actually be good for a couple. Just don't hit below the belt!
- Never humiliate your partner publicly or throw something back in his or her face that has been offered to you as something private. These can be more a breach to your relationship than an actual affair. Lesson: what happens in the bedroom stays in the bedroom. Learn how to keep some elements of your relationship private.
- Do not expect your mate to fulfill all of your needs and take time to understand how your partner's needs are met through words and actions. The "you complete me" scene in Jerry Maguire may have had you sobbing like a sucker but learn how to take care of your own needs and nurture your partners – but don't live for them.
- Give verbal aphrodisiacs daily to your partner. Tell them they look good, that you loved the dinner they cooked. Who knew foreplay and wordplay went together so well?
- Try to go to bed at the same time every night, even if one of you has to get up later for work.
- Ladies and gentlemen, it should come as no surprise. Sex is just as important as communication. Make sex a priority. Schedule it in. Take turns developing a sexual adventure for your partner. Use sex as a stress buster!"
- Put your partner first. Put yourself in their shoes and try to think what it's like to be them before making any judgments. Most importantly, trust them. So, the next time you want to go out and party with the girls instead of following through with your set dinner plans, try to think how you'd feel if the tables were turned.
- There is a fine line between being honest and being cruel. Be honest with kindness and use soft language, don't be brutal. So the next time you're ready to explode, take a step back and reconsider your approach. And every night before you go to bed, tell your partner seven things that you are grateful for in your relationship.
- Become unbeatable together. Stay strong together under any circumstance and be each other's rock. You are each other's best friend, lover and confidant. Be loyal to one another and don't let anyone talk bad about your partner.
- Stop criticizing and complaining to your partner. If you have complaints try writing them down in a notebook and read them later. You'll be surprised how petty they really are.
