What does it take to have and maintain a healthy relationship? It truly begins with you!
Be the best person you can be! Ask yourself the question; if you were someone else would you marry you? Begin now to be happy with yourself and your life. Remember that happiness is a state of being and not having, doing, or achieving. Happiness is not a destination, as in a future goal or place in time. You are as happy as you decide to make your mind up to be and you get what you give.
Commitment
It’s all about the commitment! Every relationship has issues, make the commitment to each other that “no matter what” there is no question to stay or go. Life gets hard and is unpredictable. Be true to your word and stand by each other through life’s ups and downs. Relationships are not about two individuals but rather about “we.” The “we” is what you share together – the support and nurturing you cannot give yourself.
Differences – Conflict Management – Forgiveness
Did you know that 69% of the time couples argue about the same perpetual problem? This means only 31% of the time, couples engage in true problem solving. This means couples need to establish positive and safe dialogues and learning to make “peace” with their problems. The next step is learning conflict management. It is essential to realize the goal may not be actually to solve these problems, but move from gridlock to dialogue and reach an understanding. Put your relationship in a win-win only outcome.
Communication
Couples in healthy relationships communicate openly with one another safely, honestly, respectfully, and compassionately. Find some truth in what the other person is saying and put yourself in your mates shoes – try to see the world through each others eyes. Attempt to understand what your partner is feeling and pay attention to their body language. Accept each others feelings and let the other know you are willing to be there and want to hear what they need to say. Strive for greater intimacy through words.
Lastly, always believe your love and commitment to each other can grow.
Now… go and enjoy the journey, forgive, grow and have fun!