Anyone who has ever been in a serious relationship will tell you it takes work. It doesn’t matter if you have been dating for 3 months or married for 20 years, the recipe for a healthy relationship is always the same. And while love is an important factor, however it takes more than that.
Relationships are built on the foundation of trust, commitment, respect, and communication. These concepts seem easy in theory, but can become convoluted to execute when you’ve been with someone for a long time. It takes work to maintain that initial ease and spark when you first met. However, it’s work that will be rewarding to your relationship.
Here are a few tactics I use in my marriage and couples sessions, to elevate their relationship to the highest level.
Check-in with Each Other Often
Sometimes, it’s hard for us to even have emotional awareness about ourselves, let alone someone else. However, there’s no better place to practice emotional intelligence than within an intimate relationship. Scheduling regular check-ins with your partner ensure no emotion is bottling up, like annoyance, anger, or frustration over something. Checking in means less fighting and better communication. Check-ins also do not have to be negative! Reassuring your partner that they are meeting your every need is important as well.
Understand That the Past is in the Past
Progression is the key to advancing in life and relationships. However, it is not always easy to move forward when we are thinking about the past. Past mistakes, fights, or problems that continuously make an appearance in your current arguments are extremely unhealthy, especially if this is an issue that has already been resolved. If you or your partner cannot move forward, it’s time to take a step back and consider why. By understanding the reason why forgiveness is difficult, you will better understand what you want out of the relationship.
Schedule a Monthly or Weekly Date
This may seem like the oldest trick in the book, but it can really bring couples together by showing them exactly why they fell in love in the first place. Between busy schedules and responsibilities, setting aside time for each other can get placed at the bottom of the priority list. This is even truer when you have been in a relationship for a long time and you are used to your routines. Reigniting that spark is a must, and dedicating one night out can have long-lasting effects.
Focus on Yourself
Sometimes we are not always in the right headspace to accept someone else’s love, or to give the love that our partner deserves. It is important that you have a strong sense of self, and not rely on your partner to make up for what you feel you are lacking. By focusing on yourself, you become the best version of yourself, and as a result, the best version for your partner as well.
Elevate Your Relationship
It’s easier said than done, and even though these concepts seem simple, it does take work and dedication. To truly improve your relationship, you must be open to incorporating elevating tactics like these.
Source: Relationship Zen (2019) 7 Ways to Improve Your Life By Elevating Your Relationship
Source: Christina Huynh (2022) 10 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Relationship Right Now
Source: Sangithaa Baid (2021) 7 Simple Steps to Elevate Your Relationship to the Next Level