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 set yourself up for long-lasting love, it’s essential to focus on finding someone with similar values. According to Kelly Campbell, PhD, “the more similarity, the better.” Additionally, both partners must commit to making the relationship work, no matter what.

Never take your partner for granted, warns Irina Firstein, LCSW. Recognize that everyone has a breaking point, and if their needs are not met, they may seek fulfillment elsewhere. It’s crucial to realize that “no relationship is perfect” shouldn’t be used as a rationalization for complacency.

Love is a Verb

To keep the spark alive, do or say something daily to show your appreciation. Terri Orbuch, PhD, suggests making small gestures, such as hugs, kisses, or surprise gifts, to demonstrate your gratitude.

Ensure you’re meeting your partner’s needs by paying attention to what you do for each other. Jeremy Nicholson, MSW, PhD, emphasizes that loving relationships are a process of mutual exchange, where both partners get their needs met.

Gettin’ Jiggy with It

Sex isn’t just about orgasms; it’s about emotional intimacy, stress relief, and increased bonding. Kat Van Kirk, PhD, recommends exploring various reasons to have sex beyond just getting off.

To keep things hot, Sari Cooper, LCSW, suggests maintaining certain practices regularly, such as sensual massages or reading erotic stories together. Remove the pressure on performance by expanding your concept of sex and focusing on intimate connection.

Handling Conflict

It’s not what you fight about, but how you fight. Sean Horan, PhD, advises avoiding negative tactics like contempt, criticism, and defensiveness. Instead, focus on finding shared common goals and using “I” language.

Try a nicer approach when bringing up issues, suggests Carrie Cole, MEd, LPC-S. Focus on your emotional reaction and make positive requests to avoid blame and criticism.

Make Time for Self-Care

Take time apart to recharge and come back stronger, advises Amy Baglan, CEO of MeetMindful. Don’t abandon yourself emotionally, financially, or physically, warns Margaret Paul, PhD.

Create a fulfilling life by taking responsibility for your own happiness, suggests Charlie Bloom, MSW. This will ensure a mutually satisfying relationship.

The Bottom Line

Every relationship has value, regardless of its duration. April Beyer, matchmaker and dating expert, reminds us that relationships evolve into what they were meant to be. Let go and enjoy the journey. By following these expert tips, you can increase your chances of finding lasting love and happiness.