When it comes to relationships it is difficult to know what to do and what not to do. Even for men it can be a little bit difficult. Unfortunately I can’t provide advice that will be fool proof because everyone is different. But I can give some advice that you may find useful at times when you need them most. Here are a few tips to remember when you are trying to start off a solid relationship.
Quality Time: Spending quality time with your partner is very important. The less time you spend with each other the more frusterated you’ll get with each other. Without quality time, your relationship will not survive. Carve out at least half an hour a night, and at least one day a month when you the two of you spend time exclusively together.
I noticed just how important this was after my daughter was born. It had been four months and we had not had a night or day to spend just the two of us(unless it was for business). I was wondering why would be arguing more than usual and felt realy bad until someone told me that we needed a night of our own. Just knowing that we would get that made us both feel better. Trust me it does wonders.
Compromise, Compromise, Compromise: You will both need security, and comfort. A good relationship is built on compromise and a great deal of give and take on both sides. I know it doesn’t come naturally, but it is very important.
Look and Listen: Encourage him to listen to you, by showing appreciation when he does. By the same token, show interest when he talks to you. Be aware that most men aren’t mentally programmed for conversation in the way women are. They need more silence and internal time. Also don’t feel bad if they don’t always respond right away. They’re listening it just takes more time for it to sink in.
Love Those Crazy Habits: I know that when you first get together you love everything that your partners does, but after awhile you get used to them. Too used to them. Often those subtle quirks that first attracted you to your partner can, with time, turn around and become toe-curlingly annoying habits. Learn to love him, warts and all.
Talk About It: Hidden resentments poison a relationship; so if something bothers you, say it. Remember that while men are wary of emotional conversations, they love to find solutions. Express your problem and then ask him to help you find the answer.
Money Issues: Money is the number one cause of couple conflict. For a relationship to work, you need to address your finances and work out a budget. This is one of the number one cause for break-ups. Don’t let it get between you!