Relationships

Here are some things to consider doing. Some items may not be applicable to you.

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© Martin Novak | Dreamstime.com

A good relationship probably needs several positive experiences for every negative one

• Learn to listen
• Think before you speak
• Work as a team
• Learn to negotiate

If your spouse/partner stays at home, e.g., to take care of kids:

• Regularly express your appreciation for the job he/she does

Before getting into a romantic relationship:

• Ensure you both share:

  • Similar basic values and beliefs, e.g., parenting, religious
  • Desire to have or not have children

• Determine if you are genuinely fond of that person

If you’re already in a romantic relationship:

• Use a nickname for your partner
• Avoid criticizing or blaming your partner
• Divide household and parenting responsibilities as equally as feasible

Regularly:

• Spend satisfying time together
• Make a date at least once a week for just the two of you to do something fun
• Physical interaction, e.g., hugs
• Express interest in the things your partner is doing and is interested in
• Praise things your partner does, especially things you would like for him/her to do regularly
• Express your affection for your partner often, especially when he/she is behaving in a manner you find attractive

If conflicts arise:

• Agree on a time to talk, then take turns talking
• Stick to current issues, not the past
• Control yourself, not your partner
• If it gets too emotional and/or intense, separate and come together after you’ve both cooled down
• Don’t use shame or blame

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