What's the secret(s) to maintaining a happy healthy relationship

[CT98]

I'm 26 with two LTR's behind me.

 

I'd really like my next one, if at all possible, to be life lasting.

 

Reading this board is at times highly depressing, to see the amount of failed relationships & the way some people treat others is quite saddening at times.

 

I understand that relationships mostly last until you out grow one another, and a lot of times people and their feelings change.

 

I also understand that sometimes relationships just aren't meant to last, and they can be the catalyst for change and an opportunity to learn important lessons.

 

But I'd like to hear from those who feel they are in successful long-term relationships, and why and how it became and is a success.

[d0nnivain]

For me there are two big keys to maintaining a relationship. I'm talking about after you find somebody that checks the other boxes -- attraction, ability to talk to them, compatible values etc. To me these things will keep you going when you hit a bump.

 

1. Courtesy. Say please & thank you. Appreciate your SO. Don't take them for granted. Think about their wants & needs before you take actions. Work as a team.

 

2. Play time. Have fun with the other person. Not just sexy time but that is important. Laugh with them. Be silly. Have private jokes. Be goofy & vulnerable.