Feeling obligated instead of infatuated this Valentine’s Day? Don’t worry you aren’t alone. A recent study by WhatsYourPrice.com’s sister website, SeekingArrangement.com, found that 56% of couples are making Valentine’s Day plans because they believe it is a requirement. Did you know that we set ourselves up for failure when it comes to relationships?
When you take two single people and spin them into a relationship you are dealing with just that. Two single people. In fact, to make it work, in a conventional relationship or in online dating, we have to change our environment and go against nature.

On a personal note, while researching this topic the overall lack of romance in ways to make a relationship work bothered me. Please note that if none of these changes work, it might be time to consider a relationship counselor, or even part ways.

Changes Every Couple Should Make for a Successful Relationship

1. Spend time with other couples, but avoid toxic couples.
Don’t waste your time with double dates. Rather, go out or engage in regular activities with other couples. Being with happy couples subliminally makes you notice all the good things about your relationship. Spending too much time with singles triggers envy. Our natural need to have what everyone else has. In this case, many people confuse being unavailable with a lack of freedom.

2. Don’t do anything. Seriously just sit there.

Remember when you would do everything to be alone with your significant other? When was the last time you spent time with him/ her without the television or computer on? Unplug and listen. You might be surprised as to what has been running through both your minds.

3. Have a first date every month.

Newlyweds, committed couple, or rounding the Copper Anniversary. Reserve one day of each month to go on a first date with your significant other. Date nights are common and feel obligatory. Pull out all the stops like you did on the first date. Ladies, primp up and act as if you were on a first date—that means no nagging and actually inquiring about his interests. Gentlemen, mind your manners and treat her as if you are trying to win her over.

4. Go on vacation or stay-cation together.
Did you have another argument about the dishes or dirty clothes on the bathroom floor? Was last week’s “somewhere special” the local pizza shop? Mixing travel and dating is a proven formula for romance. Whether it’s a vacation or a stay-cation at your local resort, taking a break from your everyday routine can help rejuvenate any relationship and mend frazzled nerves.

What did you think about these tips?
What are additional ways to make a relationship work?