Getting More From Dating, Romantic Relationships, and Marriage

Getting More From Dating, Romantic Relationships, and Marriage

Romantic relationships happen because of the hopes and dreams
a couple has for a happy life together. The relationship will continue
to be pleasant and rewarding as long as the hopes and dreams are kept
alive by staying concerned with what is good about the relationship.

This article suggests ways for staying aware of what makes your romantic relationship worthwhile.

Don't Expect Too Much --

Don't expect a perfect relationship. That happens only in
fairy tales. If you expect everything to be wonderful, it makes your
relationship less valuable by comparison. Problems will occur. You will
get hurt. Being too concerned with the problems will stop you from
paying attention to what is good in the relationship.

Romance and love will more likely happen if you allow
them to happen instead of making them a goal. If love is the goal, you
will compare how the relationship is now to what you think it should
be. You will be continually disappointed. Making the relationship
better should be the goal. Pay attention to treating each other fairly
and helping each other. If love happens, it will be based on believing
that both of you can continue to build a good relationship.

Your attitude should signal the other person that you
will try to patiently work through each other's shortcomings. It won't
be easy. Being tolerant and non-condemning is a challenge. But
consciously making an effort to be tolerant goes a long way.

Build Upon What Is Good --

Find activities that you both like

and
do them together. These can be activities such as gardening, cooking,
hobbies, conversation, recreation, an interest in art, charity
volunteering, and family activities. Having interests that are shared,
keeps a couple involved in each other's lives.

Share ideas to find ways to more enjoy living. Tell your
sweetheart about strategies you use for such things as achieving goals
and enjoying yourself. Tell each other about what you think is
interesting, what is worthwhile, and what is encouraging. If you share
positive ideas, you will think of each other as pleasant and enjoyable.

Encourage your partner to act and make decisions. Both of
you will be able to accomplish more with the other's support and
encouragement. When there is a disagreement, be patient. If you need to
criticize, offer a positive alternative rather than a condemnation.
Your encouragement likely will produce more good results than will your
objections.

The good things in life are much more important than the
disappointments. Reward yourself for the good in what you are doing and
take some time to do what you enjoy.