The Top 3 Skills Couples Need to be Happy

It has been said that there are endless ways to have a bad relationship, but all good relationships are remarkably alike. As a therapist that focuses on couples, I have found that to be true. In fact, I have found that if people can master three simple skills, almost any relationship will work out and be happy. Unfortunately, most couples don’t have a clue what those three skills are, so they bounce from one partner to the next, thinking there is either something wrong with them or the mates they pick. But what if the only thing “wrong” is their lack of knowledge as to what really makes a relationship happy and strong? Without the right skills, they could be fully committed, work hard on their relationship, and even pick a good mate — but still have it end in disaster. In this age of great stress and distraction, it’s more important than ever that couples know the three key skills needed for creating a lasting, satisfying bond.

Gratitude

Gratitude is the first skill needed in a relationship, and luckily it can be developed. Gratitude for your partner is like a powerful elixir. Just a little can go a long way toward cementing your bond. When you live with someone day after day, however, it’s easy to take that person for granted. That’s why I was intrigued when a friend told me he’d met a guru in India who gave him a mantra for feeling gratitude toward his wife…