From a very young age, we learn to interact with others. From these interactions are born some friendships… and from these friendships are sometimes born, you guessed it, relationships.
Like everything else, these relationships will require nurturing. The most important thing to remember is that in order to nurture relationships, you need to nurture yourself. It is not selfish to think of yourself once in a while. You need to feel good about who you are in order to be able to give yourself entirely in a relationship.
It’s not always easy, but a relationship does not happen alone. It requires work! On our end, there are 5 elements on which both I and my husband agree are the important foundation of our relationship (10 years together).
- Communication: Don’t be afraid to talk and share with the person you are with. It is through communication that you will be able share your dreams. When the other knows your goals and dreams –and the same for you– it is easy to align these and work towards one main goal. When communicating, it also opens up the connection between the two of you. Eventually, you know exactly how your partner is feeling just by the interaction.
- Forgiveness: Everyone makes mistakes and it is important not to hide them. It is also important to not hold grudges and learn to let go. Relationship is not always rainbows and pink butterflies… you will have moments where there will be challenges. You have to work together to find a solution and forgiveness.
- A sense of humor: Learn to laugh at some of the silly things you do that you don’t even notice you are doing. Believe me, he will notice. Don’t take everything seriously, have a laugh!
- Never, EVER, go to bed angry: If you have a disagreement (it will happen), no matter what you do, fix-it and make-up before going to bed. Last thing you want is to bring the disagreement to next morning where no one had closure –or sleep– because of an unfinished conversation. If you are in doubt, refer to #1 of this list.
- Intimacy: Yes, I’m serious! It is an important part of a relationship. Either you love one another or you are, well, roommates. When I say intimacy, I don’t mean sex –Ok, I admit, sex is also important, but this is more than just sex–. It goes deeper… it’s the romance, the love, the overall package. It’s your alone time, just the 2 of you. It could be as easy as a road trip, going for a long walk, holding hands, watching a movie cuddled on the couch and I could go on.
For a relationship to work, you are required to put work into it. I do feel tough that if you respect these 5 elements, the work seems much more easier. Open your heart & mind to your partner, you might be surprised!
