Golden rules that have worked for couples who have been together for years

There are couples that get along so well with each other and always seem so perfectly in sync that it makes us wonder what their secret is. Obviously it would take years of understanding, effort and compromise to learn about each other’s idiosyncrasies and to accommodate each other’s needs.

However there are simple rules that can help too and they work! They may seem basic but sometimes we need to be reminded about things that have been tried and tested and that can’t go wrong if practiced daily with your partner.

Mind your language always
The simplest gestures are often taken for granted when living with someone day in and day out but a ‘please’ and a ‘thank you’ can go a long way indeed. It helps remind your loved one that you appreciate what they do for you.

Spice things up
Don’t be boring and if you’re thinking you’re not an adventurous person that’s ok too. Trying out something new could be as simple as checking out a new restaurant. Try new things and see how it helps you bond.

Play together
Take up a hobby that you can do together and make it something both of you have always wanted to try out. Hiking, camping, glamping or even running a marathon if you’re the sporty sort. Cooking classes or ballroom dancing are also great options.

There’s a right way of arguing
Don’t resort to name calling under any circumstance. If you’re feeling too angry take a minute to calm down or walk away until you can get a hold of yourself. Always let your partner finish what they have to say and never start a discussion until both of you are ready to listen.

Do something for something
If you want your husband or wife to follow you somewhere they may not like you can always throw in a sweetener. So for example if they don’t like the philharmonic orchestra promise that if they accompany you this once, you’ll do something with them that isn’t your favourite thing either like going to a football match or a Formula 1 race.

Don’t sweat the small stuff
So what if the shoes got chewed up by the dog because they were left outside. Never mind if the the laundry has been mixed up resulting in your favourite white shirt now becoming pink. These are just things. What’s more important is remembering that you’re in a happy and functioning relationship. Learn to laugh things off and keep things in perspective.