Bad habits like keeping your feelings to yourself or bickering with your mate can have disastrous consequences in a relationship. However, taking the time to develop healthy habits can help you build a stronger bond.
According to Mayo Clinic research, the right bond between two people can reduce stress, prevent loneliness, increase your sense of purpose and improve your quality of life. However, a fulfilling relationship doesn’t bloom overnight. Joe Wilner, a life coach, says that a strong relationship is built with five key building blocks: commitment, compassion, generosity, kindness, and tolerance.
Tips for Building Strong Relationships
If you’re looking to strengthen your relationship, check out the healthy relationship habits listed below.
- Healthy habits for commitment. A strong relationship requires a couple’s time and combined effort. Consider making a habit of working together on the little things like preparing dinner, paying bills, doing yard work or even recycling. Also consider starting new, combined projects (like home improvement), taking up a shared hobby, having a date night, or planning a trip together.
- Healthy habits for compassion. Intimacy can help you develop compassion in a relationship. You can build upon this by simply going to bed at the same time and falling asleep together. Or consider making time for pillow talk with your partner.
- Healthy habits for generosity. Negotiations and compromises are important for every relationship, but every now and again consider a more generous approach. Consider walking the dog even though it’s your spouse’s turn or letting your partner pick the restaurant for your next meal together.
- Healthy habits for kindness. Little acts of kindness go a long way. Consider buying small, surprise treats for your partner (like their favorite snack or drink). Also, everyone loves a little praise. Make a habit of telling your partner how much you appreciate them. Give them specific examples and details; they make all the difference.
- Healthy habits for tolerance. We could all be a little more open-minded. Consider making a habit of listening respectfully to your partner’s concerns. Another part of getting along with your spouse means respecting your differences. Consider making a habit of learning and participating in your partner’s interests.