Be compassionate about the fact that neither of you intended to hurt the other as you set out on this journey. The most fundamental ingredient in the intimacy formula is cherishing each other. You need to celebrate each other s presence. One of the most painful mistakes couple make is the failure to notice their own partner s heroics. These small acts of selflessness include taking out the trash, doing the laundry, mowing the lawn, driving the carpool, preparing the taxes, keeping track of birthdays, calling the repairman and cleaning the bathroom, as well as enduring hundreds of other routine labors.
People are amazingly resilient if given at least a little reinforcement for their efforts.
But they become demoralized if they toil without appreciation. So make a concerted effort to notice daily acts of heroism by your loved ones. Finally, try to keep in mind that there really are no perfect relationships. Do what you can to help each other manage the daily juggling act you both perform. Opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by members of the Coalition.