- Work to reduce stress that might be straining your relationship.
- Discuss life stresses and how to manage them together. Support each other in difficult times.
- Try to make positive interactions outweigh the negative, by five to one. Show appreciation, gratitude and care.
- Share your views, ideas and emotions. Try to express frustration, disappointment and anger openly and constructively.
- Consider your partner’s view and try to empathise with their thoughts, feelings and actions.
- Establish shared values, expectations and standards, and work to live by those important to you.
- Remain respectful during conflict. Keep calm during any discussions. Ensure you both work to repair any hurt caused.
- Appreciate each other’s roles, the goals that link you, and how each of you contributes to and influences each other.
- Encourage your partner’s work, friendships and activities. Celebrate successes.
- Keep your sense of playfulness, affection and positive humour.
Source: Australian Psychological Society, psychology.org.au
