It could be said that when a relationship doesn’t last long, it has most probably failed.
A long-lasting relationship is
also known as a long-term or enduring relationship. It is a romantic or interpersonal partnership or connection between two people that lasts for years, or even a lifetime.
Over the years, there’s been an increased rate of divorces and separations between couples. This has triggered the quest for solutions to a lasting relationship.
According to the 2006 National Population Census data, 704,000 Nigerians are divorced. The statistics show 230,000 males and 474,000 females.
A relationship could be between friends, family, business partners, and couples. These relationships can be said to be failures when broken. However, if you want a long-lasting relationship, there are some behaviours you should avoid.
Behaviours to Avoid for a Long-Lasting Relationship
- Poor Communication: Zero communication leads to misunderstanding and it chokes the life out of a relationship in a short time.
- Ignoring Red Flags: Love is no longer blind, hence you need to be observant while starting a new relationship to see things you can’t endure. Ignoring red flags equals embracing chaos.
- Disrespect: Being disrespectful by mocking, insulting, or demeaning your partner is an eyesore. Be respectful and kind to each other.
- Jealousy and Insecurity: Refrain from allowing jealousy and insecurity to dictate how you behave. Trust your partner and deal with any underlying problem that might be the root of these emotions.
- Seeking Perfection: No man is perfect, therefore, it is unrealistic to expect your partner to be perfect. All relationships have flaws. However, choose the flaws you can deal with.
After avoiding the aforementioned behaviours, you should focus on maintaining a long-term relationship.
Ten Ways to Maintaining a Long-Term Relationship
1. Effective Communication
A successful relationship is built on excellent communication between partners. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with your partner, and encourage them to do the same.
2. Conflict Resolution
Conflict is inevitable in every relationship, however, how you address it is important. Rather than snubbing or nurturing a conflict, you should address it properly and be ready to compromise.
3. Keep the Spark Alive
The relationship evolves and at times, it is said to get boring. Partners have to be intentional and consistent in keeping the spark alive. Try new things together and explore.
4. Express Gratitude
Always show appreciation to your partner. Saying “thank you” makes your partner feel valued. You could be more creative with appreciation gestures to your partner.
5. Quality Time
Spend quality time together. Go on dates, watch movies together, play games, do house chores together and have great conversations. These, and more, are ways to spend quality time with your partner.
6. Respect Boundaries
Everyone needs some alone time. Try not to always be in your partner’s face. Know your partner’s boundaries and respect them.
7. Make your Partner Aware of Your Needs
Communicate your desires to your partner. Define and ask for what you need. You can also reveal what you intend to give to your partner.
8. Support Each other
In good and bad times, be there for your partner. Provide emotional support, encouragement, and empathy. If they launch a new business, help promote it the best way you can. There’s also financial and spiritual support. Support each other in every way.
9. Be an Active Listener
Be a good listener without being defensive or interrupting. Respond when you need to, as it makes your partner feel heard and loved.
10. Physical Affection
This love language is quite vital in most relationships and it shouldn’t be underestimated in building intimacy. Hug, kiss, cuddle, and touch your partners.
In hindsight, every relationship is different and what makes a relationship last may differ. However, the above qualities are typically perceived to be crucial for developing and maintaining long-lasting relationships.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that long-lasting relationships don’t happen magically. It requires consistent effort from both partners.
RESEARCHED BY: Joy Adekunle
