In this self-centered world, it’s hard to keep a romantic relationship going strong.

Break-ups happen often for little or no reason at all, or a reason that could have been overcome if only there was a greater will to do so. Sometimes, it’s the small things that keep a couple together for a long time.  Here are some of the little things that matter in every relationship.

I'll say it again and again! I really love you!

Say it!

I mean the “I love you” sentence.  If you feel it, say it. Take your significant other by the hands, look them deep into their eyes, and say it.  A smile is sure to appear on their face. Three little words that can light up both your days and remind them of how much they are loved.

Be silly together

Letting your inhibitions go and being childlike is something that can easily be forgotten when you’re an adult and especially when you’re a couple.  Being silly together shows that you are comfortable with each other, that you have embraced one another and could be a great reminder of why you fell for each other in the first place.  A couple who can laugh and play together is a happy one.

Say thank you

It’s not hard to say thank you.

But I don’t mean the default “thank you” such as when someone brings you a cup of coffee. I mean a “thank you” for the things that really matter.  When they hold your hand through a crisis when they lift you up when you fall when they stay by your side when you’re ill. In those situations, gratitude is rarely expressed with words, but can go a long way to make the other person feel special and cared for.

Compliments what she does.

Compliments are wonderful. It’s an instant lift when someone acknowledges you in a positive light, especially when it’s coming from someone you love.  It shows that you've noticed, appreciated and admired. Complimenting your partner on their looks, their personality, their positive spirit or whatever else you admire or love about them is something you can’t do too much of.  It’s a small gesture that can make a huge, positive impact on your relationship.

Just for the record, I'm a lover of fireplaces!

Do what the significant other enjoy

If he likes to watch sports, watch with him and cheer on his favorite team, in front of the fireplace it will keep both of you warm.  Listen and take interest in what your partner likes to do, even if it’s not your personal favorite.  In turn, when you want to do an activity that you enjoy, they’ll be open and willing to do it with you as well.  Going outside of your comfort zone and sitting through an opera or ballet for the simple fact that she enjoys it, speaks volumes to your significant other.  It’s a small gesture that shows you want to be with them and that you go out of your way to see them happy in their element.

Travel together

Did you know that some couples don’t travel together before their honeymoon? It may come as a big surprise to realize that you’re not comfortable traveling with each other after years and years of relationship, and that’s normal, but there’s a cure.

Start now. When you find yourself far away from the place you live in, you have only each other to rely on, you will spend more time together- just the two of you, and you will create memories.  If you can’t afford a big vacation, try doing a ‘staycation’ and explore cities and sights around you that are nearby. Whether or not it turns out to be a great vacation, it will give you both a shared experience and something to talk about that will bring you closer.

A little present goes a long way

It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate, in fact, it can be the simple act of getting them their favorite ice cream on the way home because you know they had a long, hard day at work.  It’s not the present but the gesture and the thought that went into it that will be appreciated more so than the actual ‘thing’ you got them. Have they been talking about getting a certain book or waiting to see a certain movie?  Buy that book when it comes out or make a date for the day the movie opens, not only will they be happy but they’ll know that you listen to them and you care.

Take their side in an argument

This is more important than you think. You should always back your partner up when they are having a brawl, even if you think that they are not in the right. You must never leave them standing on their own in an argument. At the very least, you should try and bring the argument to an end. That way they will know that you have their back, that they can rely on you and that you love them. This is a little thing that makes a BIG difference.

Some of this advice you know already. Some of these are new to you but trust me, they come from years of experience, and they really work.

This is why I love you!