7 Secrets of Happy Couples

By: Melanie Greenberg Ph.D. 

We all want loving and successful relationships, but we don't always know how to achieve them. Over time, negative cycles can develop and loving feelings can turn into frustration, disappointment, and even rage. The more you try to get your partner to do what you want and need, the less he or she seems inclined to do so. Or maybe you're in the honeymoon stage of a relationship and want to know how to make the good feelings last.

Wherever you're at, research shows that certain ways of relating and being together can increase your chances of maintaining love and togetherness for the long haul. Being loving toward your partner, expressing affection and appreciation, and spending time together in activities that build intimacy can create the glue that holds your relationship together.

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Following are 7 practical suggestions based on what researchers have found when they've studied happy couples.

1. Listen with an Open Mind and Heart

2. Strive to Build Intimacy

3. Repair Fights

4. Act Courteously

5. Have a Sense of Partnership

6. Support Each Other’s Happiness

7. Make Time for Sexuality