10 things strong couples do differently
1. They know that arguments are natural and don't end it all.Strong couples understand that if you've got a house and a light bulb goes out, you fix the light bulb — you don't sell the entire house. Just because you have arguments doesn't mean the demise of the entire relationship. You can disagree with someone and still be in love with them. Just make sure to never be insulting and understand that if you fight all the time, it's a red flag.
2. They can never overstate how much they love someone.If you love him or her with the intensity that you need to in order to spend a lifetime together, make sure he or she knows it. Hearing "I love you" never gets old. As an added bonus, it helps eliminate any insecurities or doubts because you keep your partner confident about your feelings.
3. Their family is their partner's family, and vice versa.Family is an important part of any relationship. If you don't think so, just imagine the tension when you're with with someone who your parents/aunt/uncle/friends/brother/sister openly dislike. While it is unrealistic to expect everyone will always get along and like each other, it's important to put in the effort to treat his or her family as your own.
4. They keep their private life private.It doesn't take more than 30 seconds of scrolling through Facebook to spot more than one person's relationship issues. When you start inviting the public into your relationship, it no longer becomes your relationship. Sure, share your fun dates, post goofy photos together, enjoy yourself — but make sure you draw the line.
5. They don't let things get stale.Particularly in long-term relationships, it's natural to fall into a routine with someone. That's why it is important to stay spontaneous and keep the fire burning. Plan a date night, get in the car and pick a town for a weekend away; surprise him or her with tickets to that concert they've wanted to go to. Nobody wants to be in a mundane relationship.
6. They're punctual.Just because you're not picking someone up for dates anymore doesn't mean you can be late. If you're going to a party or event together, do your best to be ready when you both plan to leave. If someone is waiting around for you and getting impatient because you're going to be late to something that's important to them, it can cause unnecessary tension during an evening that's supposed to be fun for the both of you.
7. They pick up the slack when their partner is overwhelmed.Life can get busy, work can be stressful and people can get overwhelmed. That's why it's important to blur the lines of gender roles in a relationship. Doing the laundry and cleaning the kitchen are not roles for a woman — they are necessary household chores and it's important that both partners share the responsibilities. If your significant other is feeling stressed, step in and take care of it.
8. They take care of their partner when they're sick.Nobody wants to get sick and nobody enjoys it, but being in a relationship is not just about being there when things are great, it's also about stepping up when things are not great. Cancel your dinner plans, go to the store for medicine and do whatever it takes to make him or her feel better.
9. They don't stop doing the little things.If you're checking out at the store and their favorite candy is on the shelf, grab a box. Bring home flowers randomly. Plan a date night. The small, random things you do for someone are what count the most because it shows you don't need a holiday or special occasion to do something nice. You just do it because.
10. They ask how your partner's day was.We all need to vent sometimes. Regardless if we had a stressful day, feel unappreciated at work or have exciting news to share, being able to open up to your significant other about small details is comforting, and openly welcoming the discussion shows him or her that you're genuinely interested in their day.