11 Simple Ways to Strengthen Your Relationship

11 Tips on How to Make Your Relationship Last

In the beginning of each year, I like to set aside some time to think on the preceding year and everything that happened. I reflect on the lows, the highs, and everything in between. I think about everything.

I look back over my objectives, evaluate how far I’ve come, and determine which aspects of my life I want to continue to work on improving in the future. The act of doing this has become into a type of ritual for me, which enables me to face the new year with clarity and intention.

The reflection from the previous year, on the other hand, was different. I decided to ask my partner, Sarah, to participate in the process for the very first time. The most of the time, I go through this practice by myself, writing down my ideas in a journal.

On the other hand, this time we sat down together and spoke about our individual and collective objectives. We had a conversation about our relationship, discussing what was going well, what might be improved, and how we could both develop as individuals.

This was without a doubt one of the most profound conversations that we have ever had.

We decided to construct a list of continuing relationship commitments, which are guiding principles that we want to live by as a partnership, rather than simply setting individual goals for ourselves instead.

For the purpose of serving as a daily reminder to maintain our relationship with one another, we wrote them down and positioned them in a public location.

It has been a few months since we made these agreements, and they have already had a huge impact on the way we interact with one another. Please have a look at what we have here:

Always put respect first. When we have a disagreement, we never treat each other with disrespect, regardless of how hot the argument may become. We want to make sure that our words always build rather than tear down, since we know that words have substantial weight.

Regular check-ins are performed. Every single day, we make it a point to communicate with one another about our thoughts, feelings, and intentions, whether it be through a brief text message in the morning or a recap at the end of the day. Even when things get chaotic in our lives, it helps us stay connected.

Rejoice in even the little victories. We make an effort to recognize the smaller successes as well, whether it’s finishing a challenging job assignment or simply getting it through a stressful day.

It’s easy to celebrate significant milestones, but we also make an effort to recognize the smaller victories.

Act as each other’s most ardent advocate. We constantly remind ourselves that we are all on the same team, regardless of the difficulties that may be thrown our way. We raise one other up, encourage each other, and support each other’s dreams with all of our hearts.

Never let anger get you to bed. Even if it means coming to an agreement to disagree for the time being, we make sure to resolve any issues before the day is over.

A lingering grudge simply serves to construct walls, and we would rather to go to sleep with tranquility than with frustration that has not been resolved.

Put an emphasis on spending quality time. Despite the fact that life is hectic, we make sure to schedule time for the two of us to spend together, whether it be a night out on the town, a weekend getaway, or even just a night spent preparing dinner together without any interruptions.

Every day, express your thanks. One trait that we admire about each other is something that we talk about every night.

It’s a simple routine, but it helps us concentrate our attention on the positive aspects of the situation rather than dwelling on the negative aspects.

Honesty and kindness should be used in communication. Delivering is just as important as being transparent. Our goal is to communicate with one another in a manner that is honest and not rude or dismissive.

Recognize and accept responsibility for our actions. When we make a mistake, we are responsible for it.

We make it a priority to apologize and make amends whenever it is necessary, as blaming and being defensive only serve to create distance.

Collaborate to grow. We challenge one another to become better versions of ourselves, whether that means acquiring new skills, adopting healthier habits, or simply being more present in each other’s lives. Together, we strive to become better versions of ourselves.

Always keep in mind the reasons why we selected each other.

In times of difficulty, we remind ourselves of the love that was the driving force behind our collaboration in the first place. It doesn’t matter what challenges life throws at us; that foundation will always be solid.

Because of these vows, we have been able to cultivate our relationship in ways that we had not anticipated.

These guiding principles, rather than being strict laws, are what keep us in alignment with one another.

On certain days, we are able to simply adhere to them, but on other days, we require gentle reminders. The fact that we are both actively working toward a healthier and happier relationship, however, makes all the difference in the world.

Constructing your own list of commitments with your spouse is something that I strongly advise you to do if you are currently in a relationship. It does not have to be long; all that is required is a few significant principles that reflect the values that you and your partner share.

To a greater extent than anything else, it is about being intentional in your love and making sure that your relationship continues to develop year after year.