My husband and I have been happily married for 10 years now in Jan 2023. and I can confidently say that the key to our success is our constant effort to improve ourselves as partners. We understand that a healthy and long-lasting relationship requires continuous growth and self-awareness.
But in today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to nurture our relationships. That's why I decided to speak to some 12 couples whom I have seen bond better and deeper over the years. Each of these tips will help you be a better partner, and be a better spouse in daily life. These tips have helped us too, to strengthen our bond and bring us even closer to each other.
1. Be more present around your partner
"As my darling wife, Priya, and I have been together for 30 years now. We have learned the importance of being present in our relationship. It's the little things like putting away our phones during dinner or taking a walk together without distractions that make all the difference in our love and connection," opines Raymond from Kolkata, West Bengal.
Mental Health Experts assert: Being present allows us to truly experience life together and creates a deeper, more meaningful love that lasts a lifetime.
2. Court your partner more often
"One of the things that keeps our love alive and strong is the effort we make to always be romantic and thoughtful towards each other. Whether it's planning a surprise date night or leaving little love notes for each other, these small gestures constantly remind us of the love and adoration we have for each other," informs Rachel Simon from Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
Experts are of the view: It's important to never let the romance fade and to always make an effort to court your partner, just like how we did when we were first dating.
3. Discuss it all
"As a couple, communication is key. Ramya and I make sure to always talk through any decisions that may affect our relationship or each other. By being transparent and considerate of how our decisions may affect our relationship, we are able to trust and respect each other even more,' shared Raman Nair from Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Relationship Experts are of the view: It's important to always involve your partner in any decision-making to ensure a healthy and happy relationship.
4. Avoid Scolding or Yelling at Your Partner, Even when Alone
"It's natural to get frustrated or upset in a relationship, but it's important to remember to handle those emotions in a healthy way. Priya and I have learned that instead of lashing out, it's best to take a moment to cool down and then calmly discuss the issue with each other," informs Sadanand from Patna, Bihar.
Experts explain how: By avoiding disrespectful behavior and choosing to handle our emotions in a respectful manner, we are able to maintain a positive and healthy relationship. It helps avoid anger, depression, and that feeling of being demeaned.
5. Don’t Manipulate or Lie
Glaison from New Delhi asserts, "Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. My wife Chanda and I make sure to always be honest with each other. Manipulation and lies have no place in our relationship and we make sure to always own up to our mistakes and be transparent with each other."
Experts assert: Honesty is crucial in maintaining the trust and a healthy relationship. No relationship can be built without trust.
6. Be More Spontaneous
"As the years go by, it's easy to fall into a routine in a relationship. That's why Priya and I make sure to always add a little bit of spontaneity into our lives. Whether it's taking a spontaneous road trip or trying a new adventure together, these unexpected moments keep our relationship exciting and fresh," writes Subodh Singh from Raipur in Chhattisgarh.
Subosh is a psychologist with 10 years of practice, and thus he adds, "Being spontaneous allows couples to experience new things together and creates lasting memories that strengthen the love and bond."
7. Show Gratitude and Appreciation
“I know how important it is to show appreciation and gratitude towards my husband. In fact, it is one of the most important aspects of any relationship. When you take the time to show your partner that you appreciate and value them, it makes them feel loved and cherished. It also helps to strengthen the bond between the two of you. And I do it more than often to my wife Sumona as my spouse, as the primary caregiver to my kids,” asserts Gautam from Darjeeling.
Mental Health experts assert one must ensure to express your appreciation and gratitude regularly, whether it be through words or actions. A simple thank you or a small gesture of kindness can go a long way in making your partner feel special and loved.
8. Show Interest in Your Partner's Life and Interests
Parinidhi says, “I am from Bangalore and my husband is from Delhi, but we have always made an effort to learn about each other's cultures and interests. This has helped us to understand each other better and has brought us closer together”
Experts are of the view: Showing interest in your partner's life and interests is one of the best ways to be a better partner. By taking the time to understand what they enjoy and what is important to them, you can create a deeper connection and understanding between the two of you.
9. Quality Time Together
“In today's fast-paced world, it can be easy to get caught up in our busy schedules and neglect our relationships. But, making time for your partner is one of the most important things you can do to be a better partner. One of the ways to ensure that you make time for each other is to have rituals as a couple. Rituals help provide a sense of stability, predictability, and help create shared memories and experiences, which can build trust, intimacy. Whether it's a date night, a weekend getaway or a simple walk in the park, taking the time to be together and connect with each other is essential for any healthy relationship. So, make sure to schedule regular time for your partner and make it a priority in your life.” writes Abhishek Jain, Founder of Baely, India’s 1st Relationship Focussed Wellness Platform
Read more: Why Regular Activities are Key to a Happy and Healthy Relationship
Also, check out Baely's Ritual Builder Tool to discover activities that you and your partner can do together on a regular basis. Also, you can signup for any of the rituals and we will help you stay on track. Also, sign up for a ritual, if you want us to send you a reminder and support along the way to help you stay on track.
10. Express Physical Affection
Here I will share my own views, “Physical affection is an important aspect of any relationship, and it's one of the best ways to be a better partner. Whether it's a hug, a kiss or a simple touch, physical affection helps to create a deeper connection between partners. It also helps to increase feelings of love and affection….and mental support when one of them is feeling low because of some reason.”
11. Show Support in Actions
“When my wife feels low or returns with a dull face from work, I ensure that I sit with her or take her out to ensure she talks it out. Whether I am able to find a solution to the problem or not, I ensure that I am there for her. In case I am out of town, I make a video call to check on her regularly. Small actions of support have bonded as better over the years,” writes Satvik Sharma from Chandigarh who has been married to Aditi for 5 years in 2023.
Relationship Experts always assert: Being supportive of your partner is one of the most important things you can do to be a better partner. Whether your partner is going through a difficult time or is working towards a goal, it's important to be there for them and to support them in every way you can.
12. Be willing to Adjust
Adjustment is an important aspect of any relationship, and it's one of the best ways to be a better partner. At times when I wish to go out and eat, but if she is not in the mood, we order food. At other times, when I wish to go play tennis with her, despite being tired, she has often adjusted to playing with me even if for just 15 minutes. Small actions of compromise will help the other feel special and not left out. So we ensure we do together,” informs Deepti Chandna from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh who is married to Dev for ten years now.
Experts say: Whether it's a disagreement about where to go for dinner or a major life decision, it's important to be willing to adjust and to find a solution that works for both of you.
In conclusion, by applying these 12 ways to be a better partner, you can create a deeper connection and understanding between you and your partner, and build a healthy and happy relationship. So, don't wait any longer, start applying these ways today and watch your relationship soar to new heights!
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