It's a bit cliche, but there is no greater joy or experience than being in a committed relationship. Think of this one person as your lover, best friend, confidant, teacher, therapist, and companion. To make something as beautiful as a relationship last, it takes a great deal of devotion, care, patience, acceptance, and compromise.
Keeping this in mind, here are 25 tried-and-true rules for having a happy, healthy, and long-lasting relationship.
Before looking for the right person, become the right person.
Take care of your physical and mental health.
Love and respect yourself, and loving anyone else will be easy.
Go for someone who is proud of you and will take risks just to be with you.
If the grass looks greener on the other side, you must water your own.
Don't carry bricks from your past relationship, or you'll build the same house.
Compliment your partner at least once a day.
Carve out special time for each other once a week.
Make compromises without having to change core parts of yourself.
Learn to help each other before those around you.
If you've done something wrong, admit it and ask forgiveness.
Openly appreciate your partner and cheer them on.
Don't just criticize, understand and love.
Stay true to one another, even if distance keeps you apart.
Give your support during good times and bad.
Set realistic expectations that not all days are passionate and romantic. There will be rainy and rough days.
Learn to agree to disagree.
Yelling is not an option. Remain calm in the conversation.
It's not worth bringing up the past.
Never both be angry at the same time.
No one is a mind reader, so be clear and specific about what you want and need.
You know it's love if your partner is someone worth suffering for.
Don't compare your relationship to anyone else's.
Never go to sleep until an issue is resolved.
Always remember to say, "I love you."
What are some of your rules for a happy relationship? Share in the comments.