Life
When you've been with the same person for an extended amount of time, things can tend to get repetitive. You have the same date nights, the same conversation topics, even the same arguments. And frankly, it can get a little bit boring. If you let it. Being in a long term relationship, no matter how long you've been at it, isn't easy. But as you grow together, you learn a few things that help long term relationships thrive.
Whether you're married or in a committed relationship, it's vital to your relationship's health that you don't grow complacent. Life throws unexpected curve balls — money, children, jobs, in-laws, just to name a few — that can take a toll on you two. Complacency might just be the biggest enemy to a healthy relationship. But luckily, it's totally fight-able, and worth the energy. And believe it or not, the things that make long term relationships awesome are surprisingly simple.
I've learned the value of making my spouse feel respected, loved and heard- and the value of him doing the same for me. When you have a solid foundation built on these little things, it sets you up for long term success, no matter what life throws your way.
1
They Ask How Their Days Were
I know the times I feel most loved is when my spouse takes the time to ask me how my day was and then listen to my answer. And he loves it when I do the same for him.
2
They Kiss
And, no, not just making out. Kissing your partner first thing in the morning or right when they get home is a great way to tell them that you missed them and you're thinking about them.
3
They Take Care Of Each Other
When your partner is sick, it speaks volumes to them when you drop everything to take care of them, even if it's just a cold. Over the years, this will happen a lot, but knowing that there's someone to take care of you makes the bad days a little bit more bearable.
4
They Respect Each Other
Respect is key in a successful relationship. If you don't respect the other person in every way, and if they don't respect you, distrust creeps in and it's all downhill from there.
5
They Defend Each Other
Knowing that I have someone who will always be on my side is an incredible feeling. A partner should make it clear that they're always in each other's corner, ready to defend them.
6
They Flirt With Each Other
When you've been with someone for a while, it's easy to forget the little things that "got you going" in the beginning. I'm the worst flirt in the world, so I know the power of putting in a little extra effort to keep the magic alive.
7
They're Spontaneous
And not just in bed. A little spontaneity can spice up an otherwise normal day like nothing else. Take a drive somewhere new, cook a fun meal together (and maybe have a little food fight afterwards?), or try something you've never done. Getting out of your comfort zones together will bond you together even more.
