How to Make a Relationship Last

In today's world, making a relationship last is something that has to be worked at. Statistics indicate that 50 percent of all marriages end in divorce. Furthermore, 35 percent of Americans today, report that they have gone through a break up in the past 10 years. The majority of women report infidelity as the reason their relationship ended. Whereas most men say their relationship ended because they grew apart.

Instructions

1. Choose the right partner. For a relationship to last long term it is important that you and your partner have a lot in common and share the same values and goals.

2. Keep lines of communication open. Often relationships fail because couples do not talk about problems as they occur. If something is bothering you in your relationship, address it with your partner before it becomes a major issue.

3. Form realistic expectations of your relationship. As a relationship ages, it changes. When your relationship is new there may be more passion, intimacy and excitement. In time that settles into a more calm and comfortable form of love. The shift in the relationship means it is growing and maturing, it does not necessarily mean that the love is lessening.

4. Understand that life is full of highs and lows, and this is also true of a relationship. If you expect that just because you are in a relationship you should always be happy, satisfied and feel that all of your needs are being met, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

5. Express your love for your partner regularly and in many ways. Saying "I love you" is nice, but showing that love in your actions is equally as important. Be considerate of your partner and treat her as you want to be treated.

6. Flirt with your partner like you did when you were dating. Brush up against him when you enter the room, make eye contact with him and play footsie with him under the table during dinner. Flirting is a wonderful way to keep a relationship strong and help it to last.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember special days such as birthdays, anniversaries and holidays. Let your partner know that you appreciate her by making the day special.

• Write love notes to your partner and tuck them in his suit pocket or inside her purse to find when you are not around.