Every relationship has different needs and there is absolutely no one size fits all solution. It takes time, effort, and patience to build and maintain a healthy relationship but I want to share the 7 things that I think are important:

✅ UNDERSTANDING: We all have different likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses. Accepting each others traits in a positive way and understanding what makes the other ticks (and what doesn’t!) helps make a relationship beautiful. 

✅ COMPROMISE: It can be hard to maintain a balanced relationship all the time. At times it may feel one sided if your partner is going through a tough time or is working long hours. Care for your partner when they are having a bad day or bad period in life, knowing they will return the gesture. Give your partner the freedom to decide things for themselves and insist that they have the time and space to do their favourite things to de-stress and recharge.

✅ COMMUNICATION: Two way communication is essential in all walks of life but especially in relationships. It’s important to learn how to express your feelings, thoughts and needs in a non-accusing or judgmental way. Being heard and being able to listen keeps the connection strong between partners. It also reinforces the unique bond and emotional feelings that you have together.

✅ HONESTY: Being truthful and open keeps clarity and helps us understand each other. Even the happiest people become upset at times so being open with our emotions prevents misunderstandings that can escalate into a heated discussion. Humans are hard wired to pick up on dishonesty which causes a relationship to break down. Always be true to yourself and your partner.

✅ TRUST: A key element in all types of relationships is trust and it has to be a two way street. Trust means you feel a sense of security and loyalty with your partner and you know they won’t hurt you intentionally. A lack of trust is a catalyst to the breakdown of a relationship.

✅ FRIENDSHIP: If partners are also friends they accept and respect each other, and enjoy each others company. Friendship is what helps people keep going, so always treat them how you would expect to be treated. Chat, laugh, plan, and do things that you both want to do as these things bring joy to a relationship.

✅ CONNECTION: Being connected means striving for common goals. It’s important to love doing things together, but equally as important to do stuff on your own. Do things that make you both happy and make sure your partner feels like you are their rock and their world because it will be reciprocated. If the connection is left to wander the relationship will start to break down.

Take the leap of faith. Make the Change. Not tomorrow. Not next week, but NOW.

Chris