1. Develop a strong emotional connection. According to psychology research, one of the most important predictors of a healthy relationship is being emotionally responsive (Lemay et al., 2007). This involves sending cues (e.g., verbal, physical) to your partner and having them respond to them (e.g., soothing, encouraging).
2. Be vulnerable with each other. When partners open up to each other, this helps develop and strengthen trust.
3. Be honest. This can go with vulnerability but also other forms of communication. A healthy relationship will likely not be based on lies.
4. Have "healthy" conflicts. Conflicts are inevitable in any relationship, but how you go about dealing with them is essential.
5. Try something new. This is especially helpful if your relationship feels stale, e.g., going to a new restaurant for date night).
6. Solve problems as a team. This can help strengthen your identity as an “us” instead of a “me” and “you” and develop your problem-solving skills together (e.g., this can range from an escape room to asking your partner for help with a problem at work).
7. Talk about your goals and dreams. Sharing similar hopes and core values can help you reignite what attracted you to each other in the first place.
Relationships require work from each partner, and it’s normal for relationships to go through hard times. By using the strategies outlined here, you can improve your relationships and hopefully keep them going strong.
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