This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of my links and make a purchase, I receive a commission at no extra cost to you. See the full affiliate disclosure here.
If you’ve ever looked at the happy couples in your life and wondered how they do it, then you’re not alone. Emotional connection, when done right, is the most inspiring and fulfilling aspects of the human condition. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, these tips can help you build and strengthen connections with the most important people in your life.
Side Note
If you want to be able to get closer to your partner and be able to understand each other’s needs, then I would definitely check out the book The 5 Love Languages.
It’s a great way to understand how both of you can connect and fall more in love.
Click here to check it out!
1. Listen
Next time you’re in an argument, don’t waste your time planning on what to say next. This is not a debate with a winner and a loser: if you don’t listen, everyone loses. If the conversation is too heated, take a moment to calm yourself and remind yourself of your true priorities. People in healthy relationships are able to set aside their egos in service of making sure their partner feels understood.
2. Communicate
Successful couples communicate with each other and check-in periodically in order to ensure that they still have the same priorities. They also make sure that nothing is left unsaid; if you’re not communicating your needs to your partner, then that’s not their fault that they’re not meeting them. It’s up to you to make sure they know.
3. Practice Empathy
Do a mental exercise by stepping into their shoes. The saying is famous for a reason. Every argument or misunderstanding has subtext. In other words, an argument about spending or cleaning habits could actually be standing in for deeper traumas. When someone reacts strongly to something, it may be because of painful experiences in their past, so always try to understand that you may be missing critical information.
4. Speak Their Love Language
As Dr. Gary Chapman explains, everyone gives and receives love differently. Some people respond best to Words of Affirmation; others are won by Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, or Physical Touch. Relationships are always stronger when both parties feel appreciated, but this is impossible if neither is able to speak the language of the other.
Perhaps you have been trying to make your loved one’s life easier by performing Acts of Service when all they really want is to be told that you love them.
5. Give Each Other Space
It’s always good to have your own interests and friends apart from your partner. Likewise, your partner should have hobbies and friends that they enjoy on their own. Take the time to develop yourself outside of your relationship, and your relationship will only become stronger!
Hopefully, these tips will help you strengthen your relationship, if you’re in one, or build good emotional habits if you’re not. The people in your life will thank you for the work that you’ve done. This is the best part of being human: living joyously with others.
