By Sheila Blagg
Romantic chemistry begins relationships, but only by working together can couples sustain that romance for years. Relationships take effort and mutual respect, but if both partners are committed, they can be extremely rewarding. Here are 10 relationship rules to follow for long term success.
Follow these 10 rules to build an ideal long-term relationship:
1. Respect comes before anything else. If you want to build something substantial with a person, you need to respect him/her. That’s more important than any other factor.
2. Differences are okay. Especially if you live together, differences are bound to come up. It’s important to acknowledge that differences are okay, and even beneficial—so long as you tolerate those differences.
3. There is always time for a night out. You might not go out to dinner as often after being together for several months, but it’s important to always make time for special occasions and date nights.
4. Never speak when blinded by anger. It’s okay to be angry in some situations, but you need to cool off and think about what you’re saying before you say something you regret.
5. Don’t keep secrets. White lies are bound to happen now and again, especially when protecting someone’s feelings, but you can never keep secrets in a healthy relationship.
6. You are two individuals. You are both unique people in and out of the context of the relationship. Always respect that.
7. Be forgiving. Little things and big things both require forgiveness if you’re going to move past them as a couple.
8. Be supportive. Always listen to your partner, but especially during times of crisis. Your support needs to be unconditional, even if you disagree about the subject matter.
9. Give and accept positive criticism. Open communication is key.
10. Rules should be agreed upon. Both partners’ opinions are important, so don’t establish any firm relationship rules that both partners aren’t okay with.
These rules will help you compromise and build a mutually beneficial long-term relationship together with your partner.
Sheila Blagg is a divorce mediator, Guardian Ad Litem and the founder of Divorce 2 Dating, a social networking site for individuals navigating a divorce. Whether being single comes from separation, divorce or the death of a spouse, Divorce 2 Dating provides a community of newly-single individuals with information, support and networking resources to help them through this tough journey.
Photo Credit: 2014© www.clipart.com