Habits are defined as a settled or regular tendency or practice that is hard to give up. Once you include them in your being, habits tend to get very difficult to break. So, it is up to you whether you will practice positive or negative habits in your relationship. Positive habits are necessary for a positive relationship, and negative ones make the relationship challenging. So, if you want to have a positive relationship, you should practice the following 11 habits.
1. Being respectful to each other
Respect is essential for positive relationship because it creates trust and shows acceptance. Being disrespectful toward your partner will weaken their trust and will create barriers in your connection. Disagreements can lead to arguments which then progress to insults. Pay attention to your words and always think before you say something especially when angry.
2. Eliminating distractions when you are together
We don’t have enough time for our partners due to our work and other responsibilities. But letting these distractions interrupt the quality time with your partner will damage your intimacy and your relationship. Work is usually the biggest distraction. Try to turn off the TV when you are having dinner, put your phones away and make sure you fully focus on your partner when you are together.
3. Responding to each other
Statistics say that 86% of happily married couples respond to their partners need for attention while only 30% of unhappy couples do this. You can show your attention and appreciation with small everyday things such as responding to their question or bringing something when they ask. Simple acts can lead your relationship to a happy and healthy path.
4. Recognizing and appreciating qualities
Make a habit of acknowledging your partner’s positive qualities. It can strengthen your emotional connection and make your partner feel good about themselves. By showing appreciation you create positivity that can deepen your connection.
5. Staying connected through the day
Most people are busy from the moment they wake up and you are likely the same. However, showing your love and affection when you are not with your partner is a big part of a long lasting and healthy relationship. Show your partner that they are your priority and never let anything stand between you, especially not a busy schedule. Connect by texting or calling whenever you have the chance.
6. Taking some time apart
Staying connected does not mean you have to spend every minute with your partner. It is important to spend time separated especially when frustration arises. Healthy couples know the importance of spending time alone because it deepens their love and appreciation. You can go to the movies with your friends, take a walk alone, or just read a book by yourself.
7. Forgiving shortcomings
We all have flaws and it is a part of being human. You should never look for the perfect person, instead look for someone who is perfect for you. You have flaws and you need to accept that your partner has them too. But being in a healthy relationship means accepting those shortcomings and loving the person regardless of them.
8. Frequent affection
According to research, affection is common in healthy relationship. It brings people closer and strengthens the trust and bond. Healthy frequency of affection helps make your relationship stronger and longer.
9. Surprising your partner
Sometimes we get stuck in a routine, especially in a long-term relationship and it can weaken our connection. But, this is when spontaneity comes to the rescue. Try to have fun, do something new and exciting. You don’t have to spend a lot of money; you just need to give it some thought. It doesn’t have to be something special, and if you don’t have a particular idea, you can always look for something on the internet.
10. Working together on goals
Partners in healthy relationships have short and long term goals which help them be happier and avoid having regrets. Sit down and think about where you want to be for example 10 years from now. Don’t set your goals in order to fit the standards of society. Think of the things that could make you and your partner happy instead.
11. Finding humor in each other’s mistakes
Relationships should be serious, but that does not mean you don’t have to add humor to them. You should think of the fun side even when you make mistakes. We all get dumb every once in a while, so try to find a way to laugh about it with your partner. When you do something dumb, laugh and your partner will probably laugh in return thus relieving the tension.