Things happy couples do everyday..

Have you ever met a couple that is in a happy relationship, and wonder how do they do it? Believe it or not, it can happen to you… with a little work. The first step is good communication, where you do not convey contempt or hostility.

Here are five things that couples in happy relationships do for each other:

1. They care rather than confront during tough conversations.

Start the conversation gently. Complain without blame. It’s not about winning or having control over your partner. Ask for your partner’s perspective and take a genuine interest in their answer. Take time to evaluate the outcomes.

2. They practice empathy. 

This is the hallmark of resilience. Try to understand your partner’s experiences and emotions. This will build understanding in the relationship and it will also help build the friendship.
3. They re-frame their thinking during tough times. 

This is a time to change things in the relationship. Instead of trying the same thing over and over, hear your partner out. Try and identify solutions that haven’t been tried. Be open to accepting influence from one another.

4. They connect during daily transition points. 

Don’t forget the importance of touching. Kiss, hug, smile and touch one another when waking up, or before leaving for the day. This is also important when you reunite at the end of the day and before going to bed. We all need this, and it’s actually very simple.

5. They have hope

There are three elements to hope: having goals, feeling empowered to shape your daily life, and identifying multiple avenues towards making your goals happen. It’s important to be supportive to your partner about their goals. This lets them know you have taken a genuine interest in the relationship.