Why is it that some couples seem more "connected" than others? Are they just a better match? Chances are, they're not. They just work harder at maintaining their relationship and know what it takes to keep it thriving. Here, we'll share fresh and interesting ideas on what it takes to make a relationship strong and solid — something we all crave and desire.
This seems obvious — and if you're not yet married or are without kids — it probably comes pretty naturally. Unfortunately, once you settle down and start adding more responsibilities to your lives, romance tends to get left behind. It starts requiring effort on both your parts to keep it thriving. Carolyn, a work-from-home mom with two babies and a toddler, offers some fun and useful advice:
It's easy to get caught up in the relationship and forget about your own wants and needs. The healthiest relationships are the ones where each person still makes themselves a priority. Everyone needs alone time, right? Sometimes just what the doctor orders is a night in, curled up with a bowl of ice cream and a movie — all by yourself.
This takes years and years to master. As humans, we don't naturally give love if we're not receiving it. This is why couples get stuck in ruts and slowly begin to grow distant from one another. Instead of waiting on your partner to show you love, show them love first. Again, it's not easy — especially if you're feeling animosity or anger towards that person — but do it anyways. Easy ways to give love include:
By doing little things like these regularly, you'll start to notice a change in your partner, too. They will have a better attitude toward you, go out of their way to help you and start making you more of a priority. It's a win-win situation for you both — but someone needs to be the one to start.
Do you consider yourself to be in a strong relationship? If so, how do you do it? Share in the comments below!
Women who have resisted the urge to cheat and how
6 Quirky things happy couples do
5 Ways to ask for what you need in your relationship
And you'll see personalized content just for you whenever you click the My Feed .
SheKnows is making some changes!
b e h e a r d !
Welcome to the new SheKnows Community,
where you can share your stories, ideas
and CONNECT with millions of women.
Get Started