How to Build a Strong, Committed Relationship with your Partner

2014-10-17 21:58:07 CPCC Blogging Team

Commitment is one of the most important parts of any relationship. It can also be one of the most challenging. To ensure that both you and your partner stay committee in your relationship, keep these tips in mind.

• Create a self-statement. A self-statement is a declaration, such as “my partner is my best friend,” that can help keep the relationship motivated. Keep in mind it is more the emotions behind the statement than what is actually said.
• Make plans to strengthen the relationship. Think about what you want to gain from the relationship, and decide how you are going to get there. Make a solid plan to spend extra time together to work on your commitment, whether it is doing something fun or just being together.
• Remember that your partner is human. Nobody is perfect, so make sure that you do not try to idealize your partner as something they can never be.
• Build a sense of integrity within yourself. Make sure that you are living the way that stays in line with who you really are.
• Take care of yourself. Take time to make sure that you are working on yourself, from making healthy diet choices to looking and feeling your best.
• Accept apologies. Even if your partner gives a subtle apology for something that bothered you, make sure that you acknowledge it.
• Keep the romance alive. It is easy to let romance slip away, especially when you have been together for a long time. There is no wrong way to be romantic, so do what works best for you two.
• Laugh. Laughing with your partner can allow you to grow closer, as well as relieve any tension in the relationship.
• Be yourself. Never be afraid to be yourself around your partner. Being comfortable to be yourself around your partner is a good sign of a strong and committed relationship.

At Community Presbyterian Counseling Center in San Ramon, California, we have many resources about the importance of commitment in relationships. Contact us today and allow us to help you with any relationship issues you encounter. We also recommend reading the following books:

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, by John Gottman
Things I wish I'd Known Before I Got Married, by Gary Chapman

How We Love, by Milan and Kay Yerkovich

The Five Love Languages of Apology, by Gary Chapman

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