I've been with my wife for 20 years.
Everyone on here is saying communication for a reason.
Nearly any major issue in a relationship could be avoided or at least made better by open and honest communication.
Child rearing? Communication.
Infidelity? Communication.
Shopping addiction? Communication.
Gambling problem? Communication.
Financial Hardships? Communication.It's not just about talking; it's about listening actively and empathetically. My wife and I have learned that even when we disagree, understanding each other's perspectives can lead to solutions we might not have seen otherwise. It's about creating a safe space where both partners feel heard and valued.
Of course, communication alone won't solve everything, but it's the foundation upon which trust, understanding, and love grow. Over the years, we've faced our share of challenges, but by communicating openly, we've been able to navigate them together.
To anyone looking for relationship tips, I'd say start with communication. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. And remember, it's a skill that can be developed over time with practice and patience.
Honest communication. Even if you don't want to.
Talk and try to resolve the issues, don’t let them bottle up. Even if it is hard. It gets easier with time. And don’t blame and point fingers, rather tell the other how you feel when the other says or does something you don’t like.
Been with my partner for 15 years. My top 2 tips would be
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Honesty. Build a culture in your relationship where you can speak your truth and so can they. It means creating space where they can be heard and they should do the same for you (if they don't, leave).
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make time to 'hangout" together. Doesn't have to be fancy date, just regularly carve out some time to listen to music together, watch a movie and talk about it after, go for a walk...whatever. Connect on stuff that isn't life admin related (bills, kids, chores etc)
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Communicate with painful levels of honesty. Ideally, you're both trying to do 51% of the work and elevate each other. Mutually create an environment you're both happy to choose to be in. And on the negative, but necessary side: if one party doesn't choose to be in, figure it out or end it. Don't let it linger or assume it'll just go away. Sort it out or call it.
Know yourself and use honest communication to get to know your partner.
Make him/her laugh. Fuck him/her often and with purpose. Let him/her know you cannot be taken for granted.
Saving this post for later. I’m terrible at maintaining friendships. I’m actually quite friendly and social. But I find myself with no friends because I can’t maintain a connection. Life and work and family pull me away and then suddenly it’s been a year since I’ve heard from them.
