A couple’s decision to move in together can make or break their relationship. While spending so much time together may improve their bond, the constant interaction exposes them to everything – the good, the bad, and the ugly. While living together may appear to be a lot of work, there are various ways for couples to work together to overcome obstacles.
1. They come to an agreement on guidelines and timetables.
Couples must compromise and define parameters for living together, from creating a to-do list to negotiating sleep schedules and personal boundaries.
Bad bathroom habits, according to one study, might also lead to break-ups. If you don’t want your relationship to dissolve, agreeing on rules for the bathroom is crucial (pun intended). Who gets first priority in the morning? Is it better to have the toilet seat up or down? For a peaceful cohabitation, “potty conversation” is required.
2. They share the chores.
According to one study, 56 percent of married respondents felt that sharing duties is critical for a happy marriage. This is also true for couples who live together.
Depending on their abilities and schedules, partners can devise their own system for assigning duties. As a sort of productive bonding, they can also do some tasks together.
3. They talk about money.
Household expenses, like housework, should be considered shared duties. Couples must negotiate how they intend to split the bills, taking into account their respective salaries. Their existing debts and financial aspirations should be discussed as well.
To avoid trust concerns, partners must always be honest about money things. The American Psychological Association offers advice on how to minimise financial squabbles, such as getting together on a regular basis to discuss costs and savings goals.
4. They figure out how to deal with one other’s irritating tendencies.
When couples begin living together, they become aware of each other’s quirks and habits, such as leaving filthy socks on the floor, chewing too loudly, spending too long to get ready, and so on.
Finding strategies to deal with these unpleasant habits is one way for couples to avoid driving one other insane. Daphne de Marneffe, Ph.D., a licenced clinical psychologist, also suggests determining whether the pet peeve can be tolerated or whether it is a deal-breaker that needs to be addressed.
5. They have their own routine that they follow.
According to a study published in the Journal of the Association for Consumer Research, couples who participate in rituals together have “more positive feelings and greater marital satisfaction.”
Working out together, relaxing on the couch while watching a movie, or, as one woman mentioned in a Women’s Health article, putting wrinkle cream on her spouse and receiving a special song every day are all examples of shared experiences.
6. They make time for solitude.
You don’t have to spend every waking second together if you live together. Taking a break and spending time alone is also beneficial to relationships.
Solitude allows us to contemplate on a variety of topics, including ourselves, and may assist us in becoming better individuals for our loved ones.
7. They establish house rules for visitors.
When it comes to their partner’s relatives and friends, couples have varying levels of comfort, so it’s crucial to establish ground rules for visitors. They must agree on who is allowed to attend, what the best time is, and how long they are allowed to remain.
Other hosting logistics, such as food preparations and expected activities, should be discussed prior to the guest’s arrival to avoid conflicts and worry during the event.
8. They make an effort to resolve their problems — and it doesn’t have to be before bedtime.
By creating a healthy environment and resolving all disputes, couples may make their homes an emotionally safe area.
The advice “Never go to bed furious” is outmoded, according to social psychologist Amie M. Gordon, Ph.D. Stressed and fatigued people are more likely to react badly. If you need to take a break, Gordon suggests using the pause button and sleeping in. When both couples are in good mental fitness and are in good physical shape, conflicts are addressed more effectively.
What are your thoughts on this list? Do you and your partner engage in comparable activities?
