Tips for long-lasting and fulfilling relationships 

1. Try talking openly and honestly with your partner – Communication definitely is key to any good relationship.
2. Instead of being critical of our partners, try to compliment them and tell them what you love about them and all the things they do that you appreciate. 
3. How well we listen to our partners really does make a difference. If we feel our partners don’t hear what we are saying it leaves us feeling unheard and not understood. Improve the quality of how you both listen to each other.  Talk to SM Counselling if you don’t know how to do this.
4. Relationships need care and constant looking at. Almost like you would give your car an annual MOT.  Talk about what you want from your relationship now and in the future.  Do this with SM Counselling if it is too hard to do by yourselves.
5. Learning how to apologise or say I am sorry can be crucial for any relationship.
6. Find a good balance between work, friends and family and any interests you may have and make sure to have enough “couple Stuff” to keep you connected. It can sometimes feel like we are to busy for ourselves or our partners, but it is key to making any relationship a priority.
7. Our own Self-worth is crucial to who we are: Being an individual is key to being in a healthy relationship.  Get to know and love yourself to be able to fully engage in a relationship
8. Forgiveness is crucial to repairing any relationship. It is good for all parties involved.
9. Remember to always practice the 3 C’s.

-Communication

-Compromise

-Compassion.

Remember not all relationships work out and that is ok. There will probably be good memories to cherish.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help for your relationship and ideally do so before crisis point.  Equally if you are thinking of breaking up or in the process of doing so, counselling and or mediation can help make the process easier.