Page 62 - Relationships101 A Guide To Building Healthy Relationships Final 1

Communicate with your partner. Without communication, there is no relationship.
Stay in touch. For example, call your partner even if it's just to say 'hi' or 'I love you.' If your
space is being invaded, share your thoughts. Never criticize them for showing love. Always
make time for each other.

Avoid any activity that could cause your partner to experience doubt, suspicion, or
distrust. Build your credibility, earn trust and respect by always communicating truthfully
and proactively, and always keeping your word. In this way, if something happens which
looks incriminating, your partner will believe you if you claim you are innocent. Past
behavior predicts future actions, so building a solid foundation of trust and integrity will
take you far.

Always make sure to show your partner that you appreciate them. Whether it's
calling them to check in or say, “I love you,” or just spending your Saturday night together–
–the possibilities are endless.

Know when to say no and know when time and space are constructive tools.

It is not always a good idea to answer certain questions with absolute truth if they
bring emotional harm. "Do you sometimes think about your ex?" and "Do I look fat in these
pants?" are both loaded questions. In a relationship, answer questions honestly but with tact
and grace. For example, "I think you have other pants that look better on you" is a helpful
answer, instead of simply, "They do/don’t make you look fat."

Remember, what you do-not-do is just as important as what you do.

Avoid flirting with others, especially previous partners, or co-workers. Doing so
may spur romantic feelings for either party. There is nothing wrong with having friends of a
gender you are attracted to, but flirting or acting on your feelings will not build trust.

Tell your partner how you really feel about your ex and why you are no longer
romantically involved. Don't ever lie or cheat on your partner. However, if you have fond
memories of this ex, do not dwell on them, and assure your partner that while you
occasionally remember places you went or things that happened, you are so much happier to

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