No More Lazy in Love
Relationships look different for everyone—from varying love languages to someone’s sense of humor, partnerships bring the best of both worlds together. But for all their differences, solid relationships also have their fair share of similarities, namely in what it means to be a good partner. If you’re looking to get even closer with your loved one, we have a few ways to help.
1. Communicate More
Relationships won’t get anywhere without proper communication, so keep its line open. Having the tough conversations, expressing your feelings, and checking in with each other ensures you’re always on the same page. It also strengthens your bond and can bring you even closer.
2. Plan Date Nights
Date nights aren’t just for the early stages. Even the longest relationships thrive with scheduled time alone! After so much time together, you know each other’s favorite haunts, or can plan something spontaneous. However you get away, that one-on-one time is crucial for long-lasting love.
3. Show a Little Appreciation
Partners don’t always show their appreciation, even when they’re grateful. Don’t let the moment pass you by: let your significant other know just how much they mean to you. It can be with a small gift or simply by using your words. That kind of appreciation goes a long way.
4. Be More Vulnerable
It’s not easy to be vulnerable, but showing that softer side lets your partner get even closer. It also shows them that you trust them, which bodes well for any relationship. You’ll feel better sharing your feelings, too.
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5. Learn Their Love Language
Not every partner is great with words, and that’s okay! Love languages come in all shapes and sizes, and the best partners recognize that. There’s nothing better than being with someone who knows exactly how to communicate with you.
6. Make Time for Them
Life can get in the way, but it should never impede your relationship. Amid overflowing schedules and crazy work hours, you should still pencil in those who matter most. Carving out a little one-on-one time shows that no matter what, you haven’t forgotten about what’s important.
7. Be Kind to Their Family
How you treat your partner’s family can be a reflection of your relationship—especially with difficult members. If everyone’s still in contact with each other, it’s important to listen to your partner’s wishes and treat their family with respect. Additionally, you can also make more of an effort with those you do get along with! Take their parents to lunch. Spend the day with their siblings. Remind them that they’re your family too.
8. Take an Interest in Their Hobbies
Okay, maybe jigsaw puzzles bore you to pieces (pun intended), but your partner loves them, and that gives them value. While you don’t need to become a jigsaw champion, taking an interest in their hobbies shows that you love your partner, quirks and all. It can also provide another chance to spend more time together.
9. Learn to Argue Properly
It’s easy to lose our temper in the heat of the moment, but a big part of healthy relationships is learning how to argue fairly. Try not to bring up past grievances or throw old mistakes in their face. Don’t say things you’ll regret. Just as importantly, learn how to move on together.
10. Be Honest With Them
Good partners support their loved ones, but they also share with each other. Vulnerability isn’t always about tough childhood memories or future fears—sometimes it’s about admitting what’s bothering you. After all, if you can’t talk to your partner, who can you talk to?
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11. Have Your Own Life
It’s one thing to spend time with your partner, but it’s another to develop codependency. The best partners have their own identity outside the relationship; that includes your own friends, your own hobbies, and having a little me time. Having your own life ensures your partner isn’t left to fill in the gaps.
12. Know How to Apologize
We all struggle to apologize sometimes. We might feel a little ashamed or maybe like we didn’t do anything wrong. But in tense moments, it’s important to take a step back. Is this little argument really with all the turmoil? Do you maybe see things from their perspective? Knowing how (and when) to apologize is crucial for any partnership.
13. Do Your Fair Share
Relationships are a two-way street, so don’t forego your responsibilities. No partner wants to cook dinner and then do the dishes. No one wants to clean the house alone either. Pitching in makes you a team, and that’s what relationships are all about!
14. Support Them
You should be your partner’s biggest fan! Whether they’re writing a book or looking to volunteer somewhere new, it’s important to support them. Letting them know you’re in their corner can give them that added boost of confidence.
15. Engage in Active Listening
Do you listen without interrupting? Do you ask follow-up questions about their day? If not, now may be the time to start. Active listening gives your partner a chance to share their feelings in a safe environment, and good partners actually want the details.
16. Keep the Flame Alive
Don’t forget about intimacy in the boudoir. Partners should share their fantasies, especially since that vulnerability only brings you closer. On the other hand, partners should also always feel safe to share any hesitations, and to have their boundaries respected.
17. Don’t Get Complacent
Long-term relationships often go through a lull, but they don’t have to! Keep the romance alive with spontaneous date nights. Cook dinner for them without asking. Do their chores before they get home to alleviate some stress. Put in the effort for those you love.
18. Explore New Things Together
No one said relationships had to be boring! Exploring new things together can rekindle your sense of wonder, bringing you closer and allowing your bond to strengthen. You can also learn more about the other person, which is always fun.
19. Work Towards the Future
A big part of solid relationships is having similar goals. Speak with your partner about where you see yourselves in a few years. Planning your future not only solidifies your commitment, it also gives you something to look forward to.
20. Take Care of Yourself
Sometimes, the best way to be a better partner is to be better to yourself. Whether it’s going for a walk in the morning or adjusting your diet, keeping yourself healthy ensures you’ll stick around for years to come—all without your partner worrying about you!
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