20 Little Things That'll Make Your Relationship SUPER Strong

Because the little things count, people.

cute couple WeHeartIt
Advertisement

What are the keys to a happy and successful relationship? Laughter? Financial stability? Friendship? Communication?

These all seem like things that are important, but researcher John Gottman has been studying married couples for the last two decades and the lesson from the research is clear: If you want to have a stable and healthy relationship, exercise kindness early and often.

Kindness means you're being friendly, generous and considerate. Evidence shows the more someone receives or witnesses kindness, the more they are kind themselves, which leads to upward spirals of love and generosity in a relationship.

Advertisement

There are times when being kind is hard. When you’re angry or upset, kindness is not at the top of your list, but acting in this way consistently is the key to a happy and successful relationship.

It’s important to keep in mind that being kind isn’t about the big gestures once in a while. Kindness is found in the details, and when it's practiced daily, your relationship will thrive and grow.

If you need a regular reminder, here are 20 ways to practice kindness for a happy and successful relationship.

Ravid Yosef is a dating & relationship coach based in Los Angeles. Learn about her personal coaching services and create the love and life you've always wanted — your first consultation is always free!

Advertisement

1. Don't put your partner down.

holding hands WeHeartIt

Advertisement

2. Pick up his/her favorite flowers, candy or take-out.

flowers WeHeartIt

Advertisement

3. Respect your partner’s view of the world.

girl on beach WeHeartIt

Advertisement

4. Laugh together as much as possible.

couple laughing WeHeartIt

5. Give your undivided attention when your partner speaks.

couple talking WeHeartIt

Advertisement

6. Ask if your partner needs anything when you're at the store.

girl at grocery WeHeartIt

7. Make breakfast on the weekend.

pancakes WeHeartIt

Advertisement

8. Think before you speak.

girl shh WeHeartIt

9. Smile when your partner walks through the door.

girl smiling WeHeartIt

Advertisement

10. Encourage your partner through his/her hard days.

holding hands WeHeartIt

11. Praise your partner for their good days.

couple hugging WeHeartIt

Advertisement

12. Apologize when you’re at fault.

girl with flowers WeHeartIt

Advertisement

13. Make your limited time, quality time.

couple kissing in hollywood WeHeartIt

Advertisement

14. Take responsibility for your actions and words.

girl looking out WeHeartIt

15. Leave kind notes around the house.

i love you note WeHeartIt

Advertisement

16. Ask for nothing in return to a gesture.

couple kissing WeHeartIt

17. Give your partner his/her alone time.

guy on beach WeHeartIt

Advertisement

18. Be mindful of how you verbalize anger.

girl yelling WeHeartIt

19. Pick up chores around the house when your partner can't.

girl at laundromat WeHeartIt

Advertisement

20. Compliment and acknowledge your partner.

happy couple WeHeartIt