There’s a plethora of articles out there radiating the theme of “What Happy Couples Do”, and after reading a handful of these posts from various publications, I opted to focus less on what “happy couples” do versus what resources couples may utilize to help ignite or re-ignite that genuine spark.
Truth is, the gateway to relationship happiness is unique, different, and organic to each couple. Happiness, like most other emotions, ebbs and flows as we journey in life. What curates happiness in one couple may bring lackluster to another. Thus, when looking for greater fulfillment or a little something to jazz-up the relationship, recall items from your early times that produced a natural glee: a hike, a bike ride, going to the movies, couples massage, volunteering together, or attending a painting class for example. In the end, only you two know what the secret sauce is to your unique bond.
In life, there are some basic habits that contribute to a couples bliss, and like any new habit, it may take practice and time. Nothing happens overnight. Treasure the process of the top five habits that couples should consider when nurturing their bond.
Effective Communication:
Communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Healthy couples understand the importance of both talking and listening. They express their feelings, thoughts, and concerns openly and honestly, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. Active listening is equally crucial, as it ensures that both partners feel heard and validated.
Quality Time Together:
Spending quality time together is essential for maintaining emotional closeness. Couples must make a conscious effort to prioritize each other amidst their busy lives. Whether it’s going for walks, enjoying meals together, or pursuing shared interests, dedicating uninterrupted time helps deepen their connection and create cherished memories.
Mutual Respect and Support:
Respect is the foundation upon which happy relationships are built. Couples who respect each other’s individuality and opinions are better equipped to navigate challenges. Moreover, they provide unwavering support for each other’s dreams and goals, fostering an environment where both partners can grow and flourish.
Regular Expressions of Affection:
Affectionate gestures, both big and small, play a vital role in keeping the spark alive. Couples must understand the significance of physical touch, heartfelt compliments, and unexpected surprises. These expressions of affection reinforce their bond and remind each other of their love and appreciation.
Conflict Resolution:
Every relationship faces conflicts and challenges, it’s a part of life, but it’s how these conflicts are managed that distinguishes couples. Instead of avoiding disagreements, they confront issues in a respectful and constructive manner. They focus on finding solutions rather than assigning blame, and they prioritize compromise over winning. Effective conflict resolution strengthens their partnership and deepens their understanding of each other. Trust me, this one I know from good ol’ experience. In challenge, more so than the flowery good times, relationships enhance and become stronger when a couple manages a path to healing and growth from any hardship.
Remember, no one couple is immune to life’s rigors. What people post on social media is less than half percent of a couples reality. A couple is tested by how they approach their relationship when faced with challenges and how they procure their dedication to each other. By practicing effective communication, spending quality time, respecting and supporting each other, expressing affection, and resolving conflicts constructively, they create a solid foundation for a loving and fulfilling partnership. By incorporating one or all of these habits into your relationship may help pave the way for a stronger and more organic bond that stands the test of time.
Mindfully curated by Debra Gudema for Well&Co.
📸: Addictive Creatives/Stocksy