The relationships we have with others can have a major impact on our health and wellbeing. While a strong, happy relationship can make you feel like you’ve got a permanent grin on your face, tension, arguments, disagreements and a lack of trust can be extremely damaging. In this guide, we’ll discuss some steps men can take to strengthen their relationships. 

Communication

Communication is key in any relationship. One of the main issues we encounter when talking about communication is the emphasis on speaking. It’s beneficial to open up to each other, but listening is perhaps the most important element of communicating. Take time to chat, listen to each other and digest what your partner is saying to you. Have fun with communication. It’s essential to have deep chats from time to time, but it’s also crucial to make sure that you take enjoyment out of talking to each other. Catch up on the day’s events and discuss the latest box set you’re binging or the funny video you’ve been sent on social media. Get used to two-way conversation and encourage your partner to talk to you if they tend to bottle things up or shut down. 

Having fun together

Most of us spend the majority of our time at work and we have hectic schedules. Sometimes, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to have fun and do things that make you happy. In a relationship, it can be easy to get bogged down in work, looking after children or running a household. This is why it’s so important to make the most of the time you do have together. From movie nights and long walks to playing sports, traveling or going on a bike ride, make time for each other, create memories and try new things. De-stress, relax, laugh and try to find a healthy balance between work, other commitments and your relationship. 

Intimacy

Intimacy is an integral part of relationships for most couples. While it may not always be the most important element, most people benefit from enjoying intimate moments together. If this area of your relationship is suffering, you don’t make time for each other, or you’re stuck in a rut, it’s helpful to talk. Have a conversation about what you like or you’d like to try with your partner, try to be open about how you feel about the intimacy in your relationship, and try new things if you’re both open to it. From looking at feet pics for sale and trying role-play to committing to making more time for romance, it’s important to recognize the impact of a lack of intimacy and to take steps to improve this part of the relationship. Both parties should be on the same page.

Thoughtfulness

We all want to feel valued. Often, in relationships, we tend to make an effort at the beginning and then we get comfortable and we forget about those all-important details or comments that make the difference. Compliment your partner, be thoughtful when choosing gifts, surprise them now and again and use small gestures to show them that you love them and you’re grateful for everything they do for you or bring to your life. 

The relationships we have with others can bring so much joy and happiness to our lives, but they can also be a source of stress and distress. If you’re going through a tough time, or you’re looking to strengthen the relationship you have with your partner, take these tips on board.