Secret keys to a happier relationship

Tip 1 - Rearrange your relationship as circumstances change

whatever our circumstances we all have choices. If we are lucky enough to be in a relationship, those choices have to take account of the other person. And they need constant revision as our lives change. Otherwise they won't work. We learned that the long way, often the hard way. But it was worth it. I sometimes say, half seriously, when others are talking of their second or third marriages, that I, too, am on my third marriage. But, in my case, they have all been to the same woman – and that has made all the difference.

Charles Handy

Tip 2 - Attention is THE most important factor

Attention - fulfilling an essential emotional need
The way couples give and receive attention is THE most important factor in an intimate relationship.  As human beings our need for attention overrides any other need.  So, simply by giving your partner attention you’ll do your relationship or marriage the world of good.

There is one caveat though.  The secret is that it has to be the kind of attention that your partner values.  So for example, showering your partner with kisses at every opportunity may feel great to you.  BUT that might make your partner....

By: Elly Prior

Tip 3 - Don't communicate: In successful happy relationships, people listen

Don't communicate: In successful happy relationships, people listen. 

Every therapist, counselor and relationship self-help book says the same thing, "you have to communicate." Merriam Webster defines "communication" as "the successful conveying or sharing of ideas and feelings." Sorry, but this definition of communication is largely misunderstood because, to many people, it means talking to your spouse so that he/she knows you are right.

In successful, happy relationships, people listen and empathize. They don't necessarily agree, but they do make the effort to really hear the information, and then see it from their significant other's point...

By: Charles J. Orlando

Tip 4 - Honesty is the best policy

Just be honest with your partner no matter what and you won't have any reason to not be happy!

Tip 5 - Understanding and Trust

Overall, understanding and trust both fall under the category of communication. Communication eradicates many negative factors like doubt, misunderstandings and most of all lack of trust.