I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for two years, and there are so many things that we have learned, as a couple and individually. Likewise, I have friendships that have taught me so many lessons as well- however, sometimes it can be hard for many people to maintain them. I asked a random group of people about their best relationship/friendship advice, and this is what I was told:
1. Trust.
The one thing each person I conversed with had this in common: trusting eachother. Whether it be friendships or your love intrest, trusting the other person is a major step in countinuing a lasting bond. If you cannot trust the person for simple things, it may not be the best idea to have a relationship with them.
2. Make time for each other.
This in itself is pretty self explanatory. College years are especially trying on one's schedule, but if you love them, you are going to make time for them- plain and simple.
3. Always Be Yourself.
Applying mainly to friendships, this is also important in your love life as well. There is never an instance where, if they truly wanted to spend time with you, a person would enjoy getting to know or fall in love with the wrong person. Physically you may be who they think you are, but if you are not that way on the inside as well, you are setting up for a disaster.
4. Always pretend like it's the first date.
Never lose that excitment you had the first time you two went out, or the nervousness you had right before you held hands. Never become complacent with what you have.
5. Go out at least once a month.
Again, make time for each other. It does not have to be food, but find a place where neither of you have gone before, and go there.
6. Fight through the boring days.
Because they will happen. Not everything will be "adorable" or "exciting". There are times where all you do is sit on a couch for hours together, or maybe not see each other for a few weeks/months.
7. If it is not going to matter in two weeks, it probably should not matter now.
It is truly excruciating to watch couples and friendships end over petty disagreements. Pick your battles, and please pick them wisely.
8. When you fight, put yourself in their shoes.
One of the biggest mistakes a person can make is if they do not try to understand what another person is going through. Even though something may have upset you, it may be a clever thought if you think as to why they did what they did in the first palce.
9. Love them, despite their mistakes.
Things happen, and mistakes are made-- by you and the other person. Some mistakes are a than others, but if you can also see your imperfections, then their failures may not be as important than to begin with.
