Maintaining a Healthy Relationship

Here are some suggestions for maintaining a healthy relationship over the long-term:

Pay attention to your partner’s preferences. Know the little things your partner likes and take time on a regular basis to do them. It can be a quick phone call, email or text to check in and say hi, his/her favorite meal, or a back rub. Even simpler, it’s knowing the little things that make your partner feel loved and doing them regularly, which can be as simple as pulling your chair out for dinner. If you’re unsure, ask!

Date night. Get out alone for at least 2 hours doing something together at least once every 2 weeks. This doesn’t mean inviting other couples along. Date night is for the 2 of you to connect with each other.

Communicate. Set aside time daily when you can talk about the day, family, friends, work, each other. When one of you talks, the other simply listens and acknowledges. No advice giving! Make sure both of you have the opportunity to talk and be heard. This doesn’t have to be lengthy, 10 minutes per person is sufficient for relationship health.

Say I’m sorry. When you experience conflict, apologize. Ideally, both parties can take responsibility for part of the problem. Ask, “what can I do to help resolve this?”

Remember you are a team. As a team, you check in with each other when making  plans, back each other up when parenting, and make big decisions together.

Looking for relationship counseling

Whether you are single or currently in a relationship, relationship counseling can help you find the intimacy and connection you desire. Contact one of our relationship counselors in Houston to find out more. To get started now give us a call to schedule an appointment at 832-559-2622 or schedule an appointment online.

Relationship Resources

The Marriage Refresher Course Workbook for Couples provides an opportunity for you and your spouse to benefit from learning the basics of strong, connected marriages, no matter how long you’ve been married. If marriage disconnection is an issue for you, this can be a helpful tool to get you back on track together. This can be a great resource to bring in with you to couples therapy. Click here to view more details.

The Premarital Counseling Workbook for Couples is designed to help you embark on marriage with a strong relationship skill set. We encourage you to strengthen your relationship foundation BEFORE you tie the knot – to pack your toolbox for the inherent ups and downs of life. This can provide insight for discussion in premarital counseling. Click here to view more details.