How to Behave in a Relationship: Things to Do in a Relationship. “Relationships Give Life Purpose.” (c) Relationships are hard. Marriage is hard. And, as a result, it’s not for everyone. Thank goodness, for people in “terrible circumstances,” there is an alternative — separation. But if you want to live “for better or for worse, for better or for worse” with the same person, bring a short memory and a long sense of humor to your relationship. You’ll need it.
Here are 50 of the best relationship tips to make your relationship last and enjoyable:
1. Get rid of scripts.
Any fantasy you’ve cultivated from romantic literature about what marriage should look like isn’t going to help. There’s no script, so don’t be disappointed if your “fairy tale” collides with reality.
2. Goodbye…
Didn’t Jesus say that forgiveness is not just seven times, but seventy-seven? In your first six months, you’ll have to forgive 490 times, no less. Jesus underestimated because, remember, he was not married.
3. …And forget.
If you have forgiven but not forgotten, can this be called true forgiveness? There are people who claim to have forgiven, but still use every opportunity to recall the guilt. But the one who has truly forgiven has truly forgotten.
4. Be a team.
Sometimes life is a struggle, no matter how much we dream of “easiness”. One of the pleasant bonuses in marriage and relationships is the opportunity to have someone who gives you bullets and bandages your wounds.
5. Grow.
If you have the same desires, opinions, and beliefs at age 50 that you had at age 25, it is your own fault. You will not and should not be the same person you were then.
6. And adapt.
Even if you are stagnant, the person you are in a relationship with is changing. Don’t be afraid. Embrace them, learn from them, be grateful for it.
7. Find your faith.
There is a certain sense in believing in something beyond our crude human existence. Explore these beliefs.
8. Travel together.
Travelers are forced to rely on each other in unpredictable ways. It will also broaden your worldview and the way you value your relationships.
9. Travel separately.
I want to go to Australia, and you want to go to Maine? Great. Take lots of photos and compare notes.
10. Develop your own interests.
It may seem counterintuitive , but you’ll improve your relationship if you cultivate your separate interests.
11. Develop a wide, diverse circle of friends.
One of life’s greatest joys is meeting new people. And many of the people you meet will likely make you appreciate your partner.
12. Don’t keep count.
Some people like to count who did what for each other. Don’t do that. It’s stupid. And childish.
13. Exercise.
You owe it to each other to be in good physical shape. The mental side effects (euphoria) of exercise will also be helpful.
14. Practice self-awareness.
Look in the mirror more often. Think about who you are and what you contribute to your relationships. Are you critical? Unscrupulous? Harsh? Picky?
15. Admit when you’re wrong (even sometimes when you’re not).
This is both the easiest and the hardest thing on this list. But this simple gesture will pay immeasurable dividends; it will help you grow, and it’s just the right thing to do.
16. Celebrate achievements, big and small.
Whether it’s a promotion at work or a police officer who lets you go without warning, take every opportunity to celebrate this good fortune together.
17. Surprise each other.
Wash her car. Let him sleep alone in bed once in a while. Buy him some bacon. Give him flowers.
18. Don’t forget about the little good things.
Hold the door, suggest a night at the movies, point out a new haircut. The rewards for these are greater than the effort.
19. Forget about the bad little things.
Don’t crack your knuckles, don’t clear your throat, don’t pick your nose. This is a direct bid for the death of your relationship.
20. Develop your best qualities.
Do you have the opportunity to actually work on the qualities that make you better? In a long-term relationship, you can do this every day. And these qualities are patience, loyalty, compassion, trust.
21. It is better to use the bathroom separately.
If you think it’s cool to brush your teeth while he uses the toilet, you’ll eventually change your mind. Trust me.
22. Talk about sex (but not right before, during, or right after).
Sex is an important part of any relationship. But for some reason, couples don’t want to discuss it unless they’re in the throes of passion. Don’t make sex a taboo.
23. Encourage each other.
We all have insecurities. Your relationship is where you should be able to talk about them comfortably and openly, and your spouse should help you with that.
24. It’s okay to have secrets.
Unless it concerns cheating, of course.
25. Avoid subtext.
This is a cowardly way of communicating. If you have something to say, say it. Don’t hint.
26. Put it back.
Toilet seat. Her mobile phone.
