8 Ways to Be a Better Partner in 2017

Updated on 12/26/2016 at 1:00 PM

A relationship takes two, but there's also a lot you can do on your end to make it successful. Taking the initiative to be a better partner can only have good results for both parties, and it will encourage your significant other to match your efforts. Even without the intention to make them follow in your steps, a happier partner equals a happier relationship. See eight ways you can improve.

Be more patient.

As long as one of you can be the level-headed one during a tense situation, it won't escalate to an unnecessary level. It's difficult but well worth the extra effort when the both of you can talk it out calmly when it blows over. Plus, improving on patience can help prevent any fights over trivial things.

Suggest more date ideas and plans.

Shake up your nightly routine of TV-watching and get a little spontaneous. Plan a trip or some fun dates for the two of you to make some new memories.

Ask if there's ways you can make your partner happier.

He or she will appreciate the fact that you're concerned about their needs. You can adjust how you approach things by finding out what they want more of or less of.

Be more open-minded.

Whether it's being more open-minded about your SO's views or about their taste in music, be more willing to see it from their end. It can be another opportunity to bring you both closer together, and who knows? You might discover you share a common interest.

Be more affectionate and vocal about your feelings.

After being together for some time, it's natural to show less affection than you did when you first started dating. Remind your SO that you adore them and say "I love you" often.

Be their biggest cheerleader.

Even the smallest victories are worth celebrating. It shows that you're supportive and there for your partner no matter what. Encourage them to pursue their goals and ensure them that you'll be rooting them on the whole way.

Talk less about yourself and listen more to them.

Take a step back from the conversation and be fully engaged with what they have to say. This will make them want to come to you more with news and remind them that their thoughts are valued.

Show how much you love and appreciate them on a daily basis.

There's no such thing as too much love. Your partner should never doubt or question your feelings for them, and they won't if you show them exactly what they mean to you.