8 Practices For A Thriving Relationship

Incorporating practices for a thriving relationship is crucial for several reasons, as these practices contribute to the overall health, resilience, and fulfillment within the partnership. Relationships inevitably face challenges, and having established practices helps couples navigate difficulties more effectively. Whether it's conflict resolution strategies, forgiveness rituals, or open communication, these practices provide a roadmap for addressing challenges constructively. Check out the 8 that we provided below. We know its a lot to go over so make sure to save this to your favs in the bookmark tab and read it when you have the time. 

ONE: BUILD A CULTURE OF APPRECIATION, RESPECT, AND TOLERANCE 
 

Appreciation:

• Regularly express gratitude and appreciation for your partner's qualities, efforts, and contributions. Acknowledge the little things they do that make a positive impact on your relationship.
• Reinforce positive behaviors by acknowledging and appreciating them. This creates a positive cycle, encouraging your partner to continue those actions. Here is an example of what you can say: " You know how much I value the little things you do, right? Your efforts, your kindness—they never go unnoticed. I want to make sure you feel appreciated for all the wonderful qualities and contributions you bring to our relationship." 

Appreciation goes so far in a relationship. When someone feels appreciated, they will go above and beyond to do things for you because we all just want to be seen and heard. Feeling special is so important. 

There is this quote by Maya Angelou that goes: 

Respect: 

• Individual Boundaries: Respect each other's personal space and boundaries. Recognize and honor the need for autonomy, allowing both partners to maintain a sense of self.
• Validate your partner's emotions. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you understand. Avoid dismissing or trivializing their emotions, as this can undermine their sense of being heard and respected.
• Offer words of affirmation and encouragement. Recognize your partner's strengths and accomplishments, and be their biggest cheerleader. Building each other up contributes to a positive and respectful dynamic.
• Contribute to shared responsibilities in the relationship, whether it's household chores, decision-making, or other joint tasks. Equality in responsibilities fosters a sense of partnership and mutual respect.
• When you make a mistake or unintentionally hurt your partner, apologize sincerely. Taking responsibility for your actions and showing remorse demonstrates respect for your partner's feelings.
• Value your partner's time by being punctual and respecting agreed-upon commitments. If plans need to change, communicate in advance and be considerate of the impact these changes may have on your partner's schedule.

Let your partner know that their connection means the world to you and respecting each other is at the core of that. Promise to always listen with an open heart, to understand their viewpoint, and to make sure they feel valued in every conversation. Their thoughts matter, always and so do yours.

Tolerance:

• Understand that no two individuals are exactly alike. Embrace and celebrate the differences between you and your partner. Recognize that diversity in thoughts, preferences, and opinions can enhance the richness of the relationship.
• Cultivate patience and understanding when faced with challenges. Tolerate imperfections and understand that mistakes are opportunities for growth. Avoid unnecessary criticism and instead, work together to find solutions.

You are unique individuals! And that is what makes your relationship so special. Your quirks, your differences - those are things to be cherished. Embrace your individuality, be patient with one another, and see how your diversity adds richness to your journey.

TWO: DEVELOP TRUST THROUGH SHARING YOUR VULNERABILITY

There is a profound moment in my relationship with Robert, around 5 months into us dating that meant so much to me, not because of the good times we shared but because of the understanding we built during a vulnerable moment.

I used to be guarded about my emotions and triggers because, in the past, I had experienced people using them against me. It made me hesitant to open up, fearing that vulnerability would be misconstrued. However, Robert sensed this and gradually worked to create an environment where I felt safe.

One evening, I decided to take a leap of faith and share with him some deep-seated triggers that I hadn't discussed with anyone before. I remember feeling a mix of anxiety and relief as I began to express these vulnerabilities.

To my surprise, instead of judgment, I found a compassionate listener. He didn't shy away from the discomfort; instead, he actively listened, offering a reassuring presence. The real turning point was when, instead of distancing himself from my triggers, he asked questions to understand better. It wasn't about fixing me but about understanding the nuances of what made me feel vulnerable.

What struck me most was the patience and empathy he demonstrated. Rather than running away from the discomfort, he embraced it. He guided me through those triggers, offering support and encouragement every step of the way. It was a profound experience of feeling seen and accepted, triggers and all.

In that moment, he didn't see my vulnerability as a weakness but as an opportunity to strengthen our connection. The trust that blossomed from that experience has become a cornerstone of our relationship. I no longer fear opening up because I know that he will meet my vulnerabilities with kindness, understanding, and a willingness to navigate through them together. It's a testament to the power of creating a safe space for vulnerability and how, in doing so, we've deepened our bond in ways I never thought possible.

So next time when you are triggered by an intense emotion. Allow yourself to open up to your partner to help them understand what you are feeling and how you both can navigate through the process. This will help tremendously the next time this trigger pops up in your relationship. You can tackle the root of the problem vs the situation at hand (that may or may not have anything to do with what's actually happening at the moment. It could be something so much deeper that they are dealing with.)

THREE: CREATE TIME AND A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE TO INTERACT WITH YOUR PARTNER

Create a Comfortable Space: Ensure that your shared space is comfortable and conducive to relaxation. Whether it's at home or in an external setting, feeling at ease sets the stage for meaningful and stress-free interactions.

Quality Over Quantity: Prioritize quality time over quantity. It's not just about spending time together but ensuring that the time is meaningful, focused, and free from distractions.

Unplug and Be Present: Disconnect from electronic devices and be fully present with your partner. This creates an environment where genuine and undivided attention fosters deeper connection and understanding.

Laugh Together: Laughter is a powerful bonding tool. Find opportunities to share humor, watch a funny movie, or reminisce about enjoyable experiences. Laughter creates positive memories and lightens the atmosphere.

Express Affection: Use this time to express affection. Whether it's through verbal affirmations, physical touch, or small gestures, showing love and appreciation strengthens the emotional connection.

FOUR: DICUSS EXPECTATIONS TO AVOID MISUNDERSTANDING

Open Dialogue: Foster open and honest communication about your expectations and those of your partner. Create an environment where both of you feel comfortable expressing your needs and desires.

Set Clear Boundaries: Clearly define and communicate your boundaries. Understanding each other's limits helps prevent unintentional overstepping and promotes a sense of respect within the relationship.

Define Relationship Goals: Discuss your individual and shared goals in the relationship. This includes short-term and long-term aspirations, ensuring that you're on the same page and working towards common objectives.

Address Assumptions: Clarify any assumptions or unspoken expectations. Often, misunderstandings arise from assumptions that haven't been discussed. Bringing these to light helps in fostering mutual understanding.

Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss expectations. As the relationship evolves, so do individual needs and expectations. Regular communication ensures that both partners are aware of any changes or adjustments needed.

Be Specific: When discussing expectations, be specific about what you need and desire. Vague expectations can lead to confusion, so provide details to ensure a clear understanding.

Consider Different Perspectives: Understand that you and your partner may have different perspectives and expectations. Be open to exploring these differences and finding common ground that respects both individuals.

Prioritize Key Expectations: Identify key expectations that are crucial to the well-being of the relationship. Focus on the most significant aspects to avoid overwhelming each other with a long list of expectations.

Discuss Roles and Responsibilities: Clearly outline roles and responsibilities within the relationship. This includes tasks related to daily life, shared responsibilities, and any specific expectations regarding each partner's contributions.

Flexibility and Adaptability: Be willing to adapt and be flexible with expectations. Life is dynamic, and circumstances may change. Having the ability to adjust expectations as needed prevents rigidity and promotes resilience in the relationship.

Acknowledge Individual Needs: Recognize and acknowledge each other's individual needs. Understanding that both partners have unique requirements helps in creating a balanced and considerate relationship.

Seek Compromise: In cases where expectations differ, work together to find compromises that satisfy both partners. Finding middle ground promotes a harmonious and cooperative relationship.

Remember it's we vs the problem. This perspective emphasizes the importance of working together as a team to overcome challenges rather than viewing each other as adversaries. It reinforces the idea that, as a couple, you tackle difficulties collaboratively, strengthening your bond in the process. This approach promotes unity and mutual support, contributing to the overall health and resilience of the relationship.

FIVE: COMMUNICATE EFFECTIVELY

Active Listening: Practice active listening by giving your partner your full attention. This means making eye contact, nodding to show understanding, and refraining from interrupting. Ensure your partner feels heard and valued.

Express Yourself Clearly: Clearly articulate your thoughts and feelings. Avoid vague or ambiguous language that may lead to misunderstandings. Be specific and direct in conveying your message.

Use "I" Statements: Frame your statements using "I" instead of "you" to express your feelings without assigning blame. For example, say "I feel" instead of "You always." This helps prevent defensiveness and encourages a collaborative conversation.

Example 1:You statement (placing blame): You always leave too much on my plate, and it's stressing me out. You need to start doing your fair share around the house."

Example 1: I statement: "I feel overwhelmed when there's a lot to do, and it would mean a lot to me if we could find a way to share the responsibilities more evenly."

Example 2: You statement: "You never take our financial future seriously, and it's frustrating. You need to start prioritizing our goals and stop avoiding these important discussions.:

Example 2: I statement: "I feel anxious when I'm uncertain about our financial goals, and it's important to me that we discuss and align our priorities for a more secure future."

Choose the Right Time: Be mindful of timing when discussing important matters. Choose a time when both you and your partner are in a calm and receptive state. Avoid bringing up sensitive topics during moments of stress or tension.

Non-Verbal Communication: Pay attention to non-verbal cues. Body language, facial expressions, and gestures can convey as much, if not more, than words. Be attuned to these cues to better understand your partner's emotions. 

Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage meaningful dialogue by asking open-ended questions. These prompt your partner to share more than a simple yes or no, fostering a deeper and more enriching conversation.

Be Mindful of Tone: Monitor your tone of voice to ensure it conveys the intended message. A harsh or dismissive tone can escalate tensions, while a calm and respectful tone promotes understanding.

Validate Feelings: Acknowledge and validate your partner's feelings. Even if you don't agree with their perspective, showing empathy and understanding helps create a supportive environment for open communication.

Avoid Assumptions: Clarify any assumptions before jumping to conclusions. Assumptions can lead to misunderstandings, so take the time to verify information and ensure you both have the same understanding.

Be Open to Feedback: Welcome feedback from your partner and be willing to make adjustments. Effective communication involves a two-way exchange, where both partners feel comfortable sharing thoughts and concerns.

Use Positive Language: Frame your messages in a positive light. Instead of saying what you don't want, express what you do want. Positive language fosters a constructive atmosphere in the relationship.

Resolve Conflict Constructively: When conflicts arise, focus on resolving the issue rather than blaming each other. Use "I" statements to express how the situation makes you feel, and work together to find solutions that benefit both parties.

SIX: PREPARE FOR CONFLICT AND DISCUSS HOW YOU WILL REPAIR

Anticipate Differences: Acknowledge that conflicts are a natural part of any relationship. Anticipate that differences in opinions, needs, and expectations will arise, and view them as opportunities for growth.

Establish Ground Rules: Set ground rules for conflict resolution. Discuss and agree upon guidelines for constructive communication, avoiding personal attacks, and actively working towards solutions rather than escalating the conflict.

Create a Safe Space: Ensure that both partners feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings during conflicts. Establishing a safe space encourages open communication without fear of judgment or reprisal.

Understand Triggers: Be aware of each other's triggers that may escalate conflicts. Understanding these triggers allows for more mindful communication and helps in avoiding unnecessary escalation during disagreements.

Discuss Repair Strategies: Have a conversation about how you both can repair and rebuild after a conflict. This might include apologizing, offering reassurance, or taking specific actions to address the underlying issues.

Take Breaks When Needed: Agree on the option to take breaks during heated discussions. Taking time apart allows both partners to cool down and approach the conversation more rationally when emotions are less intense.

Reflect on Individual Contributions: After a conflict is resolved, take time to reflect on your individual contributions to the issue. This self-awareness can lead to personal growth and a more constructive approach in future conflicts.

Seek Understanding: Prioritize seeking understanding rather than proving a point. Make an effort to understand your partner's perspective, and encourage them to do the same. This mutual understanding is key to resolution.

Express Gratitude for Resolution: After a conflict is resolved, express gratitude for the effort both partners put into finding a solution. Acknowledge the strength of your relationship in overcoming challenges together.

Learn from Conflicts: View conflicts as opportunities for learning and growth. Discuss what each of you has learned from the conflict, and explore how you can apply these lessons to enhance the relationship.

Commit to Continuous Improvement: Emphasize the commitment to continuous improvement. Understand that conflicts are part of the journey, but the goal is to continually strengthen the relationship through effective communication and resolution strategies.
 
SEVEN: DEVELOP RITUALS OF CONNECTION
 

Morning Rituals: Create morning rituals that involve positive interactions, such as sharing a cup of coffee, having breakfast together, or simply taking a moment to connect before starting the day.

Evening Check-Ins: Establish evening check-ins to share highlights and challenges of the day. This could be a dedicated time to connect and support each other, fostering a sense of unity.

Weekly Date Nights: Set aside a specific night each week for a date. This could involve going out for dinner, trying a new activity together, or simply enjoying a cozy night at home. Regular date nights strengthen the romantic connection.

Bedtime Rituals: Establish bedtime rituals that promote closeness. This could include sharing thoughts from the day, cuddling, meditating or simply spending a few quiet moments together before sleep.

Working on Personal Development: Choose books or podcasts on personal development and read them together. Schedule time for discussions to share insights and perspectives on the material.

Shared Watching: Choose a TV series to read or watch together. Discussing the story or characters becomes a shared experience that adds an extra layer to your connection.

Reflective Retreats: Plan periodic reflective retreats where you both can step away from daily routines to focus on individual reflection, goal refinement, and joint planning for the future.

EIGHT: ACCEPT AND GIVE FORGIVENESS
 
Forgiveness is not about condoning or excusing harmful behavior. It's a
conscious and intentional decision to release negative emotions and
resentment that you may be holding onto. FORGIVENESS IS A GIFT WE
GIVE OURSELVES, more than anyone else. It’s a whisper that says,

“You’re free from the chains of anger and resentment."

Holding onto resentment and anger can be emotionally burdensome. These
emotions can weigh heavily on your mental and emotional well-being,
affecting your overall quality of life, relationships, and even physical health.
Recognizing this burden is a key motivator for exploring forgiveness.

Forgiveness is an empowering choice. It shifts the focus from being a victim of circumstances to taking control of your emotional well-being. It allows
you to define your own narrative and move forward with a sense of
personal agency.

Acknowledge Mistakes: Be willing to acknowledge your own mistakes. Accepting responsibility for errors in judgment or actions is the first step toward seeking forgiveness.

Express Sincere Apologies: When you've hurt your partner, express sincere apologies. Clearly communicate your remorse and take ownership of your actions.

Avoid Holding Grudges: Foster a culture of forgiveness by avoiding the tendency to hold grudges. Understand that mistakes happen, and forgiveness is essential for moving forward.

Understand Intent vs. Impact: Recognize the difference between intent and impact. Sometimes actions may have unintended consequences, and understanding this distinction can aid in the forgiveness process.

Show Empathy: Practice empathy when your partner seeks forgiveness. Try to understand their perspective, emotions, and the reasons behind their actions.

Learn and Grow: View forgiveness as an opportunity for personal and relational growth. Understand the lessons that can be gleaned from the experience to avoid similar issues in the future.

We hope this list impacts your relationship! Share with us what you implemented into your partnership that worked for you!