Through the years of dating my boyfriend, you could say that I have learned a thing or two (definitely more). I mean, after being together for so long it would be wrong if we didn't learn something about each other. You'd be surprised how much more you can learn about someone after thinking you know everything about them! That is probably one of my favorite things about my relationship with my boyfriend, that we never stop learning more about each other. With learning more about each other we also learn more ways to love each other, and again, there is definitely more than one way to love someone.

After being in a relationship with someone for x plus years, it is easy to fall into a routine in which you find yourself doing the same things over and over again. Sometimes with working full time or school full time, we find ourselves having trouble finding ways to spend quality time together. However, where there is a will there is a way. While sometimes we find it hard to match schedules or to find a time where neither of us is busy with studying, etc, if we want to do something, we will make time for it. I can say that is something that can save a relationship, making it obvious that you are wanting to make time to spend with each other no matter what obstacles are thrown at you.

Another important thing that I have learned is that in a relationship things are not always 50/50 sometimes one of us may have to pull a little harder than the other but the goal is always to make sure that the same effort is being shown. In a relationship, it is important to keep dating your partner.

What do I mean by this?

Those cute good morning texts with silly GIFs...send them.

Plan a surprise picnic to your favorite spot to spend time together.

If you notice your boyfriend or girlfriend stressed, 9 times out of 10 a hug can make them feel so much better.

Learn to make banana bread together.

Talk about the things that scare you.

Laugh so hard about silly things so where you can't laugh anymore.

Overall, just be there for them! Relationships are so crazy to me. It amazes me how much your significant other can turn into your best friend that you can count on for good and the not so good times. It is an amazing feeling when you know that you have a rock to keep you grounded and someone who believes in you more than you believe in yourself sometimes. In your partner, you find your safe haven, someone you can turn to when you have been waiting all day to tell someone good news and they're the first person you think of telling. Someone who will help you see the rational side of a situation even when you are too stubborn to even consider it.

A relationship is more than cute pictures on Instagram and going out to nice dinners. Dating your significant other is learning from each other while also respecting each other. Dating your significant other is doubling as their best friend who they can confide in. Dating your significant other should be fun with never-ending love and support.