Building a Better Relationship with Your Partner

Finding a partner takes less effort than keeping them. Building that connection in your relationship is a long process and one that cannot be rushed. Sometimes love just is not enough to keep the relationship going.

There are certain things you can begin doing, whether your relationship is new or 10 years old. These tips will recreate the magic in the relationship and renew the close connection between you and your partner. To maintain that connection you must be willing to take responsibility for the quality of that connection. Try these tips:

Love is an Action

Saying I love you is not enough. Actions really do speak louder than words, so show your partner that you love them every day. Even if it is a long distance relationship, there are ways to show that love. Little notes, letters in the mail, gifts for no reason. If your relationship is not distant then showing joy and appreciation on a daily basis when they come into your presence will really make your love for them shine. Listen to your partner and see where you can assist them, even if they are not asking you to. This shows that you truly are their partner and that those concerns are your concerns too.

We Are All Kids at Heart

Who does not like to be goofy at times? Everyone has a kid inside him or her and at times, it will come out. Do not deride your partner when their inner child comes out, respond to them on that level and create more laughter in your relationship.

Bedtime Communication

The most sincere and heartfelt expressions of closeness often happen at night, around bedtime. There is a point to being tired when all of your defenses are down, any walls you have to maintain an air of unconcern will disappear. This is the best time to have a quiet conversation with your loved one. If you live together, go to bed at the same time every night. If you do not live together or have a long distance relationship, climb into bed and then call your partner, falling asleep together on the phone has this sense of wonderful closeness to it that lasts you all night and into the next day.

Do Not Let Things Slide

If you are concerned or disagree with something that your partner has said or done, do not put it off. Tell them how you feel. Letting it slide does not make it not matter, it merely adds it to the pile of items that will result in pent up resentments. You do not need to make the problem larger than what it is and if you cannot discuss it with your partner at that particular time, let them know that there is a problem and you would like to talk about it later. Refer to bedtime communication at this point. Do you see how it all works together?

You Are Not Enemies

Hold up the arguing. We all understand that when we argue, the conflict turns into a him against her issue. Take a deep breathe and realize that your partner is not your enemy. Remind yourself, and your partner, that you love them and are grateful for them in your life. Slow down and listen, respond to what your partner is feeling rather than react to what they are saying. You may not agree with them, but understanding that they are upset is the goal.

Physical Communication

Touching increases the overall sense of well being in the relationship. Skin to skin contact increases hormones that provide feelings of contentment. It reduces stress and increases sexual arousal. This is just another tip that leads back to bedroom communication. However, it should not be limited to there. Physical communication is a way of letting your partner know that you are there and available to them, without expressing it verbally. In some circumstances, that physical communication will be preferable to your partner than verbal.

Play Together

It is said that couples that play together, stay together. If your partner was attracted to your sense of humor, strive to keep that humor in the relationship. Play with your partner and tease him or her. This playtime creates a sense of connection. Just as the child is taught to play with others during school and it builds childhood relationships, as an adult you build your relationship with your partner by playing with him or her as well.

Time and Commitment are the only requirements to building a lasting connection with your partner. If you are willing to take the steps your relationship will soar