Snagging a significant other is one thing, but keeping them – and yourself – happy in your relationship is a totally different matter. So, what are the secrets to a successful pair?
Read on for the 15 insider tips and tricks to staying happy:
1. They celebrate a unique anniversary.
Whatever occasion it is – the first time you met, you kissed, your first vacation – pick one and make a point of celebrating that milestone.
2. They stash pleasure money.
Hello, rainy day fund. Let’s go camping / scuba diving / to the symphony / out for the night / to Paris…WHATEVER it is, stash some money aside so you can take these impromptu outings.
3. They have a couple code.
It’s like a secret unspoken language…just between you two. It also helps you read your partner’s body language better!
4. When the going gets tough they don’t call mom and dad.
Talk to your partner…don’t go running to the parents. It undermines confidence, and nobody likes their business blabbed.
5. They don’t nickel-and-dime about chores.
So you run the dishwasher more often. Don’t sweat it…it’s (hopefully) likely that he’s taking out the dogs more often than you are. Strive for a clean, happy environment…not a straight up 50/50 split of chores.
6. They never lose their sense of humor.
Enough said.
7. They get busy, period.
You know what we mean. Do it. On a regular basis.
8. They never withhold nookie as punishment.
Seriously? Don’t do it. Straight up wrong.
9. They know how to get from dog poop to passion.
Sure, you’ve got the mundane daily grind to get through: bills, making the bed, work, blah, blah, blah. See point number 3, and know when to turn up the heat. (Wink, wink.)
10. They understand each other’s needs.
COMMUNICATE. If you don’t convey what you want or expect, you’re not allowed to be disappointed when you don’t receive it. On the flip side, listen to your partner when they tell you what they want.
11. They use pet names.
They sound stupid to pretty much everyone on the outside…but you both of you know the emotional weight that nickname carries.
12. They’re grateful for the ordinary.
After a few years, things can get repetitive. Don’t ever take your significant other for granted.
13. They take 10 minutes.
Date nights are great…but kind of tough to pull off every week when things are busy. Take at least 10 minutes a night to hang out.
14. They think positively.
If you’re always focusing on trying to fix what’s wrong…well then, you’re wrong. Focus on the upside and keep things looking bright.
15. They get intimate…while getting intimate.
Connect in the bedroom…while you’re connecting in the bedroom. Eye contact is KEY.
Source: MSN Living
