Put your relationship under lock and key
An intimate relationship is as delicate as an egg. It takes extra effort to build it, to maintain it, and for it to flourish. It is therefore both partners’ responsibility to ensure it is protected.
Below are seven ways to ensure your intimate relationship is secured.
Be transparent
No one wants to buy a gold bracelet and when they are ready to wear it on a special night it turns out to not be real. It is in your best interests and that of the relationship to simply be open – no secrets, no lies.
Avoid being too friendly with the opposite sex
It is okay to have friends of the opposite sex, but what is unacceptable is when that friend consumes your time and mental space to the point where they can tell you how to handle your intimate relationship.
Always ask
Never stereotype or assume. Just because someone may display attributes of someone else doesn’t mean they are like that person. Everyone is unique and everyone handles life differently. Don’t make a judgment based on assumption. If you want to know something, ask.
Trust
This is totally dependent on transparency. If you were open in the beginning of the relationship, then trust will be a bonus! A relationship needs trust to thrive. On the other hand, it will die or suffer without it and so it is imperative that you work on this within your relationship. Talk through issues with truth and honesty and not anger and resentment.
Respect
Respect each other’s independence. You need to give your partner space to live their life. No one likes the feeling of being imprisoned. Give that leverage to your partner to go out and hang out with friends and family and also to make their own choices. A relationship is supposed to complement you, enlighten you and propel you, not jail you and suffocate you.
Avoid comparisons
Never make the mistake and make your partner feel second best to anyone. Always be present and judge your partner based on who they are and what they bring to the table. No one desires to feel less than, and this can kill the romance within your relationship which eventually will kill your relationship.
Limit the input of others
Your relationship is your business and therefore you should try to control your issues yourself. If for some reason you desire a second opinion, seek professional help or lean on someone whose relationship is healthy and successful. Sometimes, your “friends” and family are just waiting for that opportunity to hear things go bad so they can help you smash your relationship to pieces instead of finding a solution.
