Five Ways to Keep the Relationship Sizzling

Want to know how all those super-close couples keep their relationships sizzling year after year? Sure they may share an almost cosmic connection, but that only adds fuel to the fire. What really keeps their love aglow is a commitment to respect each other as individuals.

“A relationship must have give and take,” says Beth Sampson, coauthor of “Relationship Rights (and Wrongs): A Guide to the Best Possible Relationship and a Realty Check When It Isn’t.” “Neither partner should expect or demand all of the relationship benefits. Both partners must support each other.”

Sampson speaks from experience. After spending years in counseling and research in an effort to maintain her marriage, she compiled a list of common elements found in healthy, mutually supportive relationships. Written in collaboration with Melinda Wyant Jansen, M.S., Sampson’s Relationship Rights is currently being used by marriage counselors all across the nation; it also forms the basis for a curriculum being distributed nationally by OIC-GM, and Rosalie Manor called “Keys to a Healthy Marriage -- Unlock Your Potential for Healthy Relationships.”

Here Sampson shares suggestions guaranteed to generate a more give-and-take atmosphere and to spark some heat into a relationship:

1. Be flexible. Accommodate each other’s needs and try to handle changes in plans or circumstances without getting angry or upset.

2. Forgive readily. When a partner makes a mistake or does something wrong, forgive them. No “if’s” or “but’s” about it. Close the door on the subject and move on.

3. Offer encouragement. One partner should let the other know that he or she supports the other’s attempts to develop their potential and pursue their unique interests.

4. Share responsibility. Work together to accomplish things and split tasks.

5. Show love. Don’t just say it -- show it by giving freely.

“Although it might not always be easy to cozy up to these give-and-take activities, it’s worth it,” says Sampson. “You’ll be a better person and create a stronger relationship.” So what are you waiting for? Start fanning each other’s flames as individuals and watch how quickly your romance starts sizzling together.

How does your relationship rate? Find out with the free “Relationship Reality Check” at RelationshipRights.com.