The success of a relationship depends on several factors. However, you can narrow them down to two key ways to make that success last. Robert Epstein of the University of the South Pacific in Fiji conducted a study to find out what they were. The 2013 report found that it actually takes seven key skills to create a strong and happy relationship; communication, life skills, self-management, knowledge of your partner, sex, stress management and conflict resolution.
But after repeating it last year, Epstein found that of these seven, two were the most important. The study concluded that the secret to a healthy relationship lay in mastering communication and increasing your knowledge of your partner. This may sound obvious, but after questioning more than 2,000 adults, the study revealed that those who scored high on these two skills were the most satisfied with their partner.
He also found that by mastering these two specifically, the rest of the skills naturally improved. When it comes to communication, you should try to avoid phrases like «Always» or «Never» as they can be harmful. Instead, voice your concerns attentively through statements like «I don’t feel respected when.» This way, your partner will not get defensive and feel completely guilty.
Likewise, getting to know the person you’re in a relationship with goes beyond the obvious. It’s not always about remembering things like your favorite movie, but a knowledge of what makes you feel loved. That is why communication is so important to the success of a relationship. Once you understand the other person’s love language, you can make them feel happier in your relationship.