1. Be thankful for all things, big and small.
It is easy to forget about the little things that make your relationship special as the months and years go by. If your partner is thoughtful enough to surprise you with a hot cup of coffee on every cold winter morning, express your gratitude as if it were the first time they ever did it, even if it is the hundredth time.
2. Focus on what brings you together.
No matter how much you might love your partner, there are always going to be things about your relationship that drive you crazy. Instead of agonizing over your differences and disagreements, shift your attention to your partner’s qualities that you find most attractive, handsome, gorgeous or inspiring.
3. Become aware of your need to nag and control.
Don’t even think about trying to mold your partner into anyone but who they are. If you find yourself trying to control your partner’s every action and behavior, or feel the need to change them into another person who doesn’t even remotely resemble who they really are, you might be dating the wrong person. Please understand that I’m not saying you shouldn’t challenge your partner to grow and develop into a better version of themselves, because this is a healthy habit that any happy couple can get behind. There is beauty in imperfection, and there is no greater expression of true love than accepting a person (and all of the quirks that just so happen to come along with them).
4. Tell your partner a personal story or private secret.
The more secrets you keep from the partner, the fewer opportunities you will have to enhance love and intimacy. This isn’t to say you should confess your religious beliefs, political opinions, high (or low) sex drive, desire to have ten beautiful children or anything like that before you trust a person; however, as time goes on and your relationship blossoms, it becomes more and more important to be 100% upfront with your partner. It is okay to reveal one thing at a time, and it is wise to save the biggest revelations until you feel more comfortable with the disclosure, but understand that hiding important truths (no matter how much you might wish you could just avoid the conversation) can only end badly.
5. Do something new and exciting together as a couple.
Going on the same date over and over again could get boring in a hurry. The more fresh experiences you have with your loved one, the more positive memories you will have of your time together and the more exciting your relationship will be. Below are a few resources where you can find new adventures to take with your partner:
30 Cheap and Amazing Date Ideas for Couples 50 Fun Night Out Ideas for $10 or Less Go to These 10 Couple Classes if You Want a Sweet and Fun Relationship
6. Surprise your partner with acts of kindness.
It isn’t how much money you spend, how much time you invest or how much effort you expend that matters; the important thing is performing actions, no matter how big or small, with an attitude of love and kindness. Don’t underestimate the power of your words, romantic gestures, or acts of kindness; something as simple as surprising your partner with a hot cup of herbal tea if they’re sick at the office, or sneaking a love letter in their purse or gym bag when they’re not looking, will make them feel happy and appreciated.
7. Start every morning with a hug, kiss or cuddle.
Fun Fact: Did you know that touch is so powerful that it can soothe existential fears in people with low self-esteem? Starting every morning with a hug and kiss will also release feel-good hormones that make you feel excited to start your day.
8. Support your partner during their life adventure.
There is nothing more hurtful than having a partner who shows no interest in your goals, hopes and dreams. Showing disinterest in your partner’s ambitions will make them feel like they are all alone in the world, so if you can’t support them during their struggles and successes, don’t be surprised if they find someone who will.
9. Express your love in your own creative, unique way.
If you are a partner worth having, then you should know more about your loved one than I ever would. Don’t look at this article like it’s a strict how-to guide, but rather use it as inspiration to think of your own ways to enhance love and intimacy with your partner. What are you going to do to make your partner smile today? Tell us in the comments and please share with your friends if you found it helpful. Featured photo credit: She is my drug/Bryan Brenneman via Flickr
