How should one learn to respect and love your partner? This question has been the minds of many couples that I spoke to and this is definitely one of the popular topics that were discussed during coffee breaks or chill out session.

To me, leading a successful relationship is like leading your own life. Do you see successful people have certain guidelines or principles that determine how they handle daily situations? Hence in a relationship, we also have certain principles that we got to follow

Communications is the key factor in a successful marriage. If a couple is able to talk to each other about everything, major or trivial, they will do just fine, maybe better than most couples. There are stuff to adhere to if you would like your marriage to be a “happily, ever after” one. Make it a habit to commit.

No name callings please. No “lame man”s, “fatso” s or anything like that. This is not effective communication. Never put each other down. It’s not funny anymore when it repeats, just like old jokes. Remember we must learn how to raise his/her self esteem.

Be a good listener. This has been said by many people, many times, and is really a good advice, one that, sadly, few follows through. Really listen and take in what is said, then ask good questions if necessary.

Tell each other what each other like and dislikes. These bring the couple closer and avoid stepping on each other’s tail. Knowing oneself and one’s most important person brings the relationship to a level that can never come down too fast.

 If you would like to expect changes, remember that changes should start from yourself before you can influence another, Start asking your spouse how you could be a better person, listen attentively, don’t criticize, and start making a list to change your life. Only after doing so then you can try to influence a change in your spouse. And be patient if the change is slow. Know that almost all people hate changes. Always been, always will be.

Hand language. Hold hands. It works for both parties. Kiss her hands whenever you are walking. Tell her how much you enjoy holding her.

Kiss her every day and tell her that you love her. Although these three words seem simple but I tell you, it can make a good marriage out of it. Slowly love and trust will build up to form a happy relationship

Try it on your partner right now and I bet she/he will find you even more attractive. Do it now!