Regardless of whether you’re in a 50-day or a 50-year relationship, here’s how to make relationships actually work: You probably intuitively have somewhat of a sense of where your areas for improvement are, and if you don’t, try asking for some feedback from your partner, close friends, or even exes. (Yes, depending on where you’re at emotionally with them, reconnecting with an ex to talk about your strengths and weaknesses can actually be a very helpful practice.) Don’t be afraid to acknowledge that you’ve got room for growth. Everyone does. Relationships can be like old shoes—we stay in them even when they are no longer functional because they are comfortable. But comfort is rarely an indication of a life well-lived. Make time to play together. Create an atmosphere of levity and positivity when you’re together. Speak lovingly to each other, always. Hug each other, cuddle, and hold hands. These small things are what make relationships so wonderful in the first place, and keeping these loving practices alive is key to making a relationship work in the long run.
