Long term partners
Many people reach a point in their relationship where they want to make it more permanent. For a relationship to get this far it usually takes a great deal of effort from both sides. It’s not going to happen unless we start becoming more involved with the other person. Complimenting a girlfriend/boyfriend on their clothes will only take us so far – we have to understand and care about what happens to them. Their successes and disappointments should matter almost as much to us as it does to them.
Basis for a lasting relationship
It’s impossible to give an exact recipe for a lasting relationship. But there are a number of things which will increase the chances of making one work:
- There should be some give and take on both sides
- People should be up front about their feelings
- Support each other
- Communicate honestly.
Even the best relationships go through tough times – e.g. having kids, illness, losing your job. During these periods family and friends can be a great help. There are also organisations than can help when your relationship is under stress e.g Relate or Switchboard.
Here are some things that can help keep a relationship going:
- Keeping in touch – specially when you’re far apart
- Talking about what’s happening in your lives, both good and bad
- Telling each other how you are feeling
- Sharing some interests or hobbies
- Having some time to do things separately or with other friends
- Keeping other friends – not cutting yourself off
- Helping each other out
- Having realistic expectations about your partner
