It may seem like the hard work is over when you start dating someone, after all the effort it takes to get into a quality relationship.It takes constant care and attention to grow and thrive in a relationship.For lasting happiness, treat your relationship like a long-term project, encouraging love and passion, and working through problems as they arise.
Step 1: Don't take the relationship for granted.
Make it this if there is one thing you can do to make your relationship better.Being in a happy relationship isn't something that is guaranteed all of the time.You should always treat your relationship like it's special and deserving of celebration because of this.Seek to please your partner and look for opportunities to show your love.You should never assume that if you are in a relationship you can let yourself go.The occasional present or fancy dinner is always a nice gesture, but this doesn't mean that you have to constantly treat your partner to luxuries.This advice should be more about your actions.Show your partner how much you love them.You should be there when he needs you the most.There are things to do with him or her.
Step 2: Show interest in your partner's life.
Your partner does not want to be kept around for emotional support.You should always be involved in your partner's life.Allow your partner to take an active role in your life.You give yourselves a chance to grow as a couple by taking a lot of opportunities to talk about each other.When you're having trouble making a decision, ask your partner's opinion. Talk about each others' successes and frustrations with work, school, etc.Sometimes you can help your partner with difficult work/school tasks.
Step 3: You should never stop flirting.
As their relationship matures, many couples complain of losing their romantic spark.You should treat each day like you're still trying to woo each other.Before you were in a relationship, tease each other, play hard to get, and make subtle innuendos.It's impossible to stop flirting with a partner.
Step 4: Touch something.
Touching is a way to increase physical intimacy without doing anything sexual.Holding hands, hugging, and giving massages are all ways of showing your affection.These actions can be used to show that you enjoy the way your partner feels when you're together.Touch is a great way to bond, but you should always respect your partner's personal boundaries.It's a good way to start a fight if you touch your partner when he isn't ready.
Step 5: Don't be afraid to show your love.
If you're comfortable using the "L word" with your partner, you can make it part of your regular vocabulary.It's a good idea to remind your partner that you love him or her before you start the day, go to bed, or do something hard.After an argument, it can bring you back together because you love each other so much.You may want to resist the urge if you find yourself saying this every time you get together."I love you" can cheapen the phrase.It may have less of an effect if you really mean it.
Step 6: Go ahead and do it.
Long-term passion can be killed by uncertainty about the future of a relationship.Knowing that your partner will be there for you allows you to approach each other with confidence.Both of you are going somewhere for a while, so you can relax and be yourself.Your relationship will grow in honesty and affection.You don't need to decide to get married right away.You should talk about what you want from the relationship early on so that you don't run into any conflicts later.
Step 7: Open and honest is what you should do.
Communication between you and your partner should be respectful.A healthy relationship depends on this.If your partner respects you, he should be able to listen to your concerns and come to an agreement that is fair to both parties.You will usually regret staying silent more than you will regret speaking up.If you're worried that your partner is not comfortable around your family, it's important to talk about it.Future interactions may get tense and awkward if you don't.
Step 8: As soon as possible, deal with the problems.
It's never a good idea to let issues between you and your partner linger.Bring it up if you sense tension.If your partner brings up a problem with you, give it the attention you deserve.Even if it means setting aside your ego and apologizing for something you don't think is a big deal, be willing to work towards a quick, mutually-satisfying solution.The "One Day Rule" is enjoyed by some couples.When you have an argument with your partner, you should fight it out and solve the problem the same day.This avoids emotional battles.
Step 9: You should be trusting.
All great relationships are built on trust.You can't control your partner, they are an equal partner.It's important that you're comfortable letting your partner out of your supervision.Stay faithful even when you're not around and trust him or her to make wise decisions.Being able to do this is a sign of maturity and respect for relationships that can't grow without it.Do your best to get your partner's trust.Even when you're apart, act with respect for him or her.Even if you're angry, don't talk rudely about your partner to your friends.Don't do anything that would cause your relationship to be in question.
Step 10: You should be willing to compromise on important things.
Some partners in a relationship don't agree on everything.Both partners need to be comfortable not getting what they want sometimes.If you can reach "middle ground" with your partner during an argument, take this route so that both partners get what they want.You may need to give in occasionally if this is impossible.Your relationship is worth more to you than an argument.You should share this responsibility with your partner.Sharing burdens can lead to resentment.