3 Little things that make relationship work
Relationships are at the center of all human connections. Everything revolves around the interactions you build with others from your work, career, business, marriage, and family. The focus here is on the relationship that leads to marriage. Building a healthy and sustainable marriage is not always easy, but some people create lifelong bonds that stand the test of time. What is their secret? How do they navigate the complex emotions and challenges? Is it the little things that make relationships work?
You are hopeful for success in your relationship but often burdened by common fears. The fear of betrayal, failure, or miscommunication comes to mind. These concerns are valid as relationships face countless challenges. You don’t have to be perfect to make it work. The little efforts daily can build a sustainable one. The small but significant practices strengthen the foundation of love and trust.
Challenges People Face in Relationships
All relationships encounter challenges. None is immune to problems. Two different people with different personalities are enough to cause conflicts. Understanding these common hurdles can help you prepare and better manage them when they arise.
Although these challenges seem daunting, they can be overcome with small mindful adjustments. Let us look at three little things that can make a big difference.
3 Little things that make relationship work
Communicate the little things
Communication is key. You may not see the need to communicate the subtle changes in your life to the other person, but they are some of the things that cause trouble. For instance, you were caught in heavy traffic which prevented you from answering your partner’s call or you were too tired to text after work. These can be trivial matters but they affect your connection. You, not texting or responding to the call may create some assumptions. Communicate often to clear any unnecessary assumptions.
The constant exchange of little pieces of information builds trust and ensures you are on the same page. Effective communication skills positively correlate with marital satisfaction. Start practicing what you want to be in the future.
Align your values
This is my favorite part. Values alignment means that your fundamental beliefs about life and relationships are similar enough to create harmony. It will be difficult for me if my prospective partner has little interest in social media. Most of the things I do depend on the digital space. Imagine how I am going to build a life with such a person. Let’s say you are moved by entrepreneurship and want to set up a family business and build that with your partner, but your partner is very comfortable working in the corporate world. You are interested in relocating but your partner wants to build his/her life in home country. What do you do?
Early discussions about expectations, dreams, and personal goals can reduce future conflict. Differences in financial risk preferences can make or shatter a relationship. Begin the difficult conversations now to reduce conflicts and disappointment in the future.
Be authentic
Authenticity can be undervalued in relationships. Many people feel the need to present a version of themselves they believe their partner wants. Probably, the person wants to see you dress, eat, talk, fix your hair or walk in a certain way. Is it something you want to do or can compromise? You may pretend just to fit in but it won’t last. You are going to spend your life with this person and your true self will be revealed in the end. Move on if you can’t change or tolerate to fit in. It’s not just for you. Some compromises may ruin your life.
The little things that make relationship work are the ones we pay less attention to sometimes. These actions may seem insignificant in the grand scheme, but they build a strong foundation of trust, understanding, and love over time. Nurture a healthy and sustainable relationship that stands the test of time.
