Got a Successful Relationship? I'd love to hear from you!

Some people have figured out how to create successful, happy relationships with the people they love. What makes them different from those who live in perpetually miserable situations?

Of course, I have some ideas, and I'll share them. Here are some of my thoughts about how people create successful, happy relationships:

• They are mindful of the Seven Deadly Habits and strive to keep them out of their relationships.

William Glasser, MD, creator of Choice Theory, maintains that these Seven Deadly habits are what kill relationships. These deadly habits are Criticizing, Blaming, Complaining, Nagging, Threatening, Punishing, and Reward/Bribing.

• They take care of themselves, but are mindful of selfish behavior.
  

They realize the difference between self-care and self-centered behavior. They look out for each other.

• They consider their partner/spouse to be their friend.

In other words, they really like each other and enjoy spending time in each other's company.

• They are committed to making their relationship work.

When they decided to be a couple, they made it public. They got married and told the world of their decision. They don't have an "exit strategy" and they are in it for the long haul. Their commitment means that they wouldn't dream of saying, "If this doesn't work, we'll just get a divorce." That's not even in their thoughts.

Those are just some of my thoughts. Now, I'd love to hear from you! I would love know if you:

• consider yourself be happily married
  
• have fulfilling long-term relationships with friends, family, parents, children, etc.
• have been happily married for 10 years or more
• have figured out what makes your relationships successful
• have gone from having a miserable relationship to having a thriving, happy one
• would like to share your own tips and tools for creating a successful, happy relationship

Please share your experiences at http://www.trueloveafter40.com/apps/forums/.

Michelle E. Vásquez, MS, LPC
Your Successful Couples Love Coach