Close relationships play a significant role in our mental health. Not total happiness is dependent on relations, but when we are in a good and intimate relationship with someone, it increases our joy. Relationships like romantic relationships, specifically — are complex, and we’re always looking for advice. 

But, if you take a deep analysis of it, you’ll realize that a lot of people make the same mistakes over and over again. Thankfully, acknowledging these flaws – and taking steps to reverse them – can restore and nourish relationships. Here are the most common mistakes most couples make.

Taking your better half for granted
It’s easy to lose niceties as relationships mature, but it’s not a good idea to ignore your partner. Sometimes, it’s better to take time out to reflect on what life would be like without your better half. You have to think about how it will impact your daily life: your overall happiness, your plans with them. 

Also, It’s not fruitful for the relationship if your partner frequently complains about things or expects you to do nice things for them. These all are the signs that you might be taking your partner for granted. Over time, you can become self-approving and start making fewer efforts toward relations, but the reality is that every relationship requires a lot of work. It takes effort and time to maintain intimacy with your mate. So respect your significant other’s contributions, and make your contributions as well.

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Proper attention to your partner
There is a significant difference between someone listening to respond and someone who is only listening to hear. It often happens that most people listen to make a response. When an individual who is in a relationship feels unheard, the relationship begins hampering. So, it’s essential to practice active listening and make it a priority.

To practice active listening, start with small actions like eye contact, asking questions, and reflecting on what you think your partner is trying to say. For example, before rushing out on your partner, first, try to listen to your partner’s side of the story when you get into an argument. Then, make sure you genuinely seek to understand how your partner feels about the situation. Finally, if you want to improve your bond, you should focus on making sure your partner always feels heard and admired.

Not giving attention to problems
Most of us, when we get into arguments, we try to ignore fights and keep things inside, but these things start creating the real problem. When so many things accumulate in our minds, and we don’t speak on those points – they eventually explode. It’s always better to talk about problems
You might avoid a difficult conversation when your relationship is not on good terms because you don’t want to risk making things worse.

But ignoring problems won’t make them go away. Doing these actions can ultimately result in an explosive argument or a parting of ways with the other person. Communication plays a significant role in the relationship and should be kept in consideration.

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Keeping Secrets
The first and foremost rule is not to keep secrets from your partner. Not keeping secrets doesn’t mean that you have to share all minute details with your partner.  If you find that you are intentionally trying to hide things from your partner, then chances are you are doing something wrong. Consider that secret and why you want to keep it or share it with your partner and let them know why you had your hesitations. Communication is key. 

Being too codependent
Don’t be fully emotionally dependent on your partner; otherwise, it will create problems in your relationship. Your partner is your better half and is not a psychic, so it’s best to not put so many expectations on your partner. 
They can be around you for so long, but that doesn’t mean that they will always be able to understand you. It’s better to say if you are facing any problem rather than expecting your partner to read your mind.