The key elements on how to maintain a relationship start with the basics of a friendship and end with communication. Without friendship, there is no steady base to build a relationship. Meeting both partners' needs, respecting each other and maintaining responsibilities build the bridge to communication. When any of these elements are lacking, communication is the glue to hold it all together to improve relations.
Friendship. The most basic foundation for a solid relation is a concrete friendship. If you can't maintain a friendship, the relationship cannot function properly. However, even if you feel an existing relationship is not successful, you can still bring it back by rebuilding the friendship. As the saying goes: In order to have a friend, be a friend.
Needs. Despite the bad reputation associated with this word, relationships are partially about meeting both partners' needs. Even if you do not agree on issues, you need to be able to offer emotional support. This goes equally for men and women. Yes, men like to feel appreciated as well.
Respect. Mutual respect goes hand in hand with meeting needs. You may not always agree about each other's viewpoints, but the simple act of respecting a different opinion shows a willingness to accept your partner. This goes for those annoying habits that come with a partner. Often, picking on irritating habits is simply a diversion to address underlying issues that crept into the relationship.
Responsibility. In a relationship, both partners have financial, physical, mental and emotional responsibilities. These include maintaining the role of a provider, engaging in physical contact, maintaining a positive attitude devoid of self-destructive behavior and sharing of information. Sometimes one of these, or several, can be hard to meet. In that case, it is important to evaluate what is missing and work to overcome the issues.
Communication. Communication is the most important factor. If any of the other issues cause concern, you need to talk about them. In turn, make the effort to listen to your partner's concerns without taking offense. Some days you'll give, some days you'll take. As long as there is balance in the end, it is all good.
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