Relationship Tips for Being a Better Partner in Dating or Marriage
February is the month when love and relationships often take center stage, reminding us of the importance of nurturing our connections. But it's essential to remember that relationships are not a one-time effort—they require continuous growth, attention, and care. Being a better partner means showing up for your significant other, listening to their needs, and consistently taking actions that demonstrate love and commitment.
For a relationship to thrive, both partners must be actively engaged in maintaining and strengthening their bond. Intentional actions that foster trust and understanding can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling connection. When both partners are committed to growth, it inspires mutual development, making the relationship even stronger over time.
Below, we explore components from The Gottman Method Couples Therapy's 'Sound Relationship House Theory,' which outlines what makes a strong, healthy relationship
1. Acknowledge Bids for Connection: Strengthening Emotional Engagement
Bids are defined as "any attempt, whether verbal or non-verbal, that one person makes to engage with another, seeking attention, affection, or any form of positive connection;". By paying attention to your partner's attempts to connect, and actively responding to them, you can increase the level of closeness.
2. Engage in Active Listening: The Power of Thoughtful Communication
Listening to a partner share their inner thoughts and feelings, and responding in a thoughtful way without judgement, actively engaging in the discussion.
3.Create Rituals of Daily Connection: Small Acts That Strengthen Your Bond
These are intentional acts, usually small, that can strengthen a couples emotional bond. This could look like cooking or sharing meals together, engaging in a shared activity, text check-ins, nightly talks etc…
4. Resolve Conflict Constructively: Turning Disagreements Into Growth Opportunities
It’s a common misconception that healthy relationships are free of conflict, but conflict is actually a normal part of any relationship. What truly matters is how we respond to the conflict. The ability to engage in open dialogue, acknowledge our partner’s perspective, and make efforts to repair the situation can help de-escalate tension and strengthen the relationship.
5. Share Admiration: The Importance of Appreciation in a Relationship
This entails regularly expressing care and gratitude for the relationship. This can be facilitated by verbal affirmations, small acts expressing appreciation or showing affection/engagement.
6. Work as a Team: Supporting Each Other Through Challenges
In challenging moments, it's important to remember that you and your partner are on the same team. Strengthening this means being flexible, willing to compromise, and moving away from old habits of trying to "win" arguments or keep score. Focus on supporting each other and working together toward solutions, rather than seeing each other as opponents
7. Strengthen Your Friendship: Keeping the Emotional Connection Alive
As time goes on in a relationship, you change and grow as people. By keeping learning about each other and staying curious about them can help increase emotional closeness. Engaging in shared activities and creating memorable moments can strengthen the bond.
8. Consistency Is Key: Building Trust Through Reliable Support
One component of a secure relationship is consistency and the trust that your partner will be reliable and show up for you. Offering support in the day-to-day, beyond just in tough times, can communicate your support and the feeling that you are both a team.
9. Maintain Your Individual Sense of Self: Personal Growth Within a Partnership
Continuing to engage in personal development outside of the relationship. This includes pursuing hobbies, interests or other goals. This can allow you to show up as your “best” self in the relationship and balance the relationship with personal autonomy.
10. Creating Emotional Safety: Fostering Vulnerability and Trust
A secure relationship develops when both partners feel safe to be their authentic selves. Creating this involves responding with empathy, engaging in non-judgemental listening and responding, and the willingness to be vulnerable.
By consistently practicing these relationship tips, you and your partner can build a deeper, more fulfilling connection. If you're looking for personalized support in improving your relationship, schedule a consultation with us today!
Disclaimer: Live Better Therapy Solutions provides this blog and Instagram content for informational purposes only. Live Better Therapy Solutions does not provide any medical or professional advice on these platforms. Anything said should not be taken as a replacement for medical/clinical advice, diagnosis, or medical intervention.