The Seven Ways to Make Your Relationship Work

The Seven Ways to Make Your Relationship Work

Put Yourself First

People who spend time bettering themselves have happier unions than those who always put their partner's needs first.

Be Mindful

Be adequately present for each other. Validate feelings and perspectives without being quick to judgment. This will allow your partner to feel valued.

Respect Your Relationship's Privacy

When you fight with your partner, do you vent immediately? If so, partners who vent to others without taking time to process things can sometimes do more damage than good.

Avoid Toxic Friends

If your coupled-up pals are always fighting, it may sound irrelevant to your relationship, but research from Brown University shows that being around these types of couples can negatively impact your relationship.

Unplug After Work

"When you're always working, there's no division between the office and home, which increases stress in the relationship," says Dr. Scott Haltzman, author of The Secrets of Happily Married Women. Set a time limit for work then unwind together before bed- Be in the moment.

Outsource Housework 

Mopping and scrubbing are necessary in any household, but get this: If dirty dishes cause tension, cut back spending each week so you can hire a cleaning service, then use the newfound time you have for something fun.

Call a Money Summit

Couples don't usually split because they don't have enough cash, but because they can't agree on how to manage it. "Discussing your finances each month is crucial," says financial adviser Manisha Thakor. Do you pool your money or separate it? Do you know how much each of you has at any given time? Airing your finances regularly will sync you two for the long haul.