What is the secret to sustaining a happy relationship?

This is a question that generations of people have tried and failed to answer throughout their lives. Chances are that even if you haven’t lived through a breakup or two, you know plenty of others who have, and probably know plenty more whose partnerships are not so happy behind the scenes. Maintaining a relationship requires both individuals to put in the work, and many prefer not to, even though they want to reap the benefits.

Ultimately, even a person whom you consider to be your soulmate is not likely to be the perfect partner 100% of the time. We all have our flaws and make mistakes, but it is up to you to decide where to draw the line on that. One individual’s bare minimum may be another’s maximum effort, and the likelihood that this ends in a happily ever after is low. It is vital not to be blinded by rose-tinted glasses.

Some official studies, like this one conducted by The Open University, suggest that the best way to sustain romance with somebody is to pay attention to the importance of small, everyday interactions rather than solely focusing on lavish gestures. Nonetheless, there is nothing wrong with wanting a partner who is going to spoil you from time to time. The reason that most people get into relationships is the hope that it will make their life better, and that comes from actions both big and small. A relationship is not something to be acquired and then forgotten about.