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Relationships Are Complicated - What Do You Mean
"Keep It Simple Sweetie " ?
We take relationships seriously and we cut to the chase and Keep It Simple Sweetie (K.I.S.S.). Check yourself on whether you have what it takes to make a relationship fun, interesting, and beneficial to you and your partner. This is not rocket science, but not doing the actions below are the reasons so many relationships go terribly wrong. How do you measure up? Then ask yourself, did you pick someone who does or can do these things too?
What it Takes to be Great in Your Relationship

- You consistently put your partner first.
- You DO NOT treat your partner in a manner in which you would not want to be treated. Think of things you wouldn't want done to you - You don't lie to them, cheat on them, demean or talk down to them, talk negatively about them, deceive them, steal from them, use them, omit key information, hit or otherwise abuse them, or shut them out emotionally.
- You DO treat your partner in a manner in which you want to be treated, and more importantly, like they want and need to be treated, for example:
- You truly listen to them just as much or more than you talk.
- You make special time for your partner, and for the two of you regularly.
- You accept them just the way they are and encourage them to grow.
- You show them kindness and appreciation.
- You know their likes and dislikes, and do not purposely aggravate or frustrate them.
- You know their weaknesses so you can protect them.
- You know their strengths so you can draw them out.
- You know their dreams so you can help them achieve them.
- You confront with kindness and honesty. You say what you mean, mean what you say, without being purposely hurtful.
- You fight fair without going for the jugular to hurt or maim, but to get to the root of the problem and resolve it together.
- You don't finger point and place blame.
- You see the two of you as players on the same team, playing for the same goal - (e.g. to have a loving, trusting, fun & intimate relationship.)
- You talk to them, not at them.
- You forgive, for real.
- You tell them and show them your love in a manner in which they can appreciate and receive it (not the way you think they should but how they actually do).
- You have their back, they can count on you and trust you.
- You know your partner's love language. You know what he/she needs from you to feel loved, cared for, and appreciated, and you give it freely without stipulations.
- You and your partner are in agreement about your roles, your rules, and the division of labor in your relationship, and you keep your word.
- Your words and actions match.
- You are the best of friends.
- You are fun and interesting to be around. You don't leave it up to your partner to entertain you and keep things interesting, you realize you have just as much responsibility as he/she does.
- You are authentic and genuine.
- You do your best to give 100% even when they don't or can't.
While no one is perfect, these are the things you strive for and encourage each other to grow towards together. Why not?
Oh... That's Why So Many Relationships are Messed Up!
Yep, along with how well you communicate, the quality of your sex life, and how you both handle financial issues. Think long about each one of the principles above. If you do those things and are with someone who does the same, just what would your problem be? Most people say "It's easier said than done." We say, "Well of course it is silly, what's your point?" If you think relationships aren't work, don't get in one, you'll ruin it. But when you are treating your loved one right and expecting the same in return, you can cut out a lot of hurt, drama, and mess.
Where the Rubber Meets the Road:
- First, honestly assess yourself on each of the points above, and then ask your partner do to the same.
- Find out what he/she thinks about the job they are doing as your partner and how they think you are doing.
- You will either be making apologies to each other and mapping out a plan to make the necessary changes in your relationship or you will end up in a huge fight, blaming each other.
- The outcome of your discussion tells you both how emotionally mature you are. If you think your partner is so much more immature and irresponsible than you, think again. You picked him/her over someone as "mature" as yourself. How mature was that?
- You've got to be real with yourself before expecting great things from someone else.
The Love 101 - K.I.S.S. Course is based on these principles, but go deeper. Dive on in and grow a relationship that blows both of your minds!
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