She Strengthens

Unlock the Secrets to Lasting Love

Navigating the complexities of love can be a daunting task, but with expert advice, you can increase your chances of finding happiness in your romantic journey. Whether you’re single, dating, engaged, or married, relationships take work, and your actions, words, and thoughts play a significant role in their success.

Get into a Healthy Mindset

To build a strong foundation for lasting love, consider the following expert tips:

• Shared Values Matter: Look for someone with similar values, as differences in values can be particularly problematic in the long run. (Kelly Campbell, PhD)
• Don’t Take Your Partner for Granted: Realize that everyone has a breaking point, and if their needs aren’t met, they may find fulfillment elsewhere. (Irina Firstein, LCSW)
• Avoid Being Each Other’s “Everything”: Create relationships outside of your romantic partnership to maintain a healthy balance. (Matt Lundquist, LCSW, MSEd)

Love is a Verb

Show your appreciation and affection through daily actions:

• Small Gestures Matter: Express gratitude through simple acts, such as hugs, kisses, or small gifts, to strengthen your bond. (Terri Orbuch, PhD)
• Meet Your Partner’s Needs: Pay attention to what you and your partner do for each other as expressions of love. (Jeremy Nicholson, MSW, PhD)

Get Intimate

Don’t underestimate the importance of physical and emotional intimacy:

• Sex is More Than Just Orgasms: Prioritize sensation, emotional intimacy, and stress relief in your sexual encounters. (Kat Van Kirk, PhD)
• Keep Things Hot: Maintain a vibrant and sexy connection with your partner through regular practices. (Sari Cooper, LCSW)
• Redefine Sex: Expand your concept of sex to include intimate connections beyond penetration and orgasm. (Chelsea Holland, DHS, MS)

Handle Conflicts with Care

Learn to navigate disagreements in a healthy and constructive manner:

• Fight Fairly: Avoid contempt, criticism, stonewalling, and defensiveness, and instead focus on shared goals and “I” language. (Sean Horan, PhD)
• Start Gentle: Approach conflicts with empathy and positive requests, rather than blame and criticism. (Carrie Cole, MEd, LPC-S)
• Identify Your “Good Conflicts”: Embrace the conflicts that can lead to deeper love and growth in your relationship. (Ken Page, LCSW)

Prioritize Self-Care

Remember to take care of yourself and maintain your individuality:

• Take Time Apart: Recharge and come back to your partner stronger by taking breaks and pursuing individual interests. (Amy Baglan, CEO of MeetMindful)
• Don’t Abandon Yourself: Learn to love and prioritize your own needs to create a loving relationship with your partner. (Margaret Paul, PhD)
• Create a Fulfilling Life: Take responsibility for your own happiness and well-being to ensure a mutually satisfying relationship. (Charlie Bloom, MSW)

The Bottom Line

Every relationship has value, regardless of its duration. Embrace the journey and the lessons it teaches you.

• No Such Thing as a Failed Romance: Relationships evolve into what they were meant to be. Let go and enjoy the journey. (April Beyer, matchmaker and dating expert)