Trouble in Paradise: Common Relationship Problems and How to Fix Them

Relationships are not easy. Even the best relationships need constant nurturing. Like a garden in summer, if you don't look after your relationship, it will eventually wither and die.

Most couples have their ups and downs. You might love your partner to bits, but there will be times when you can't stand to be in the same room as them. That's all part of being in a relationship. The hard part is recognizing when you have issues and knowing what to do to fix them.
Here are some of the most common relationship problems and what you can do to rectify them.

Poor Communication

Just because you talk to one another about the kids and other everyday topics, it doesn't mean you are good at communicating. Some couples can't discuss an issue without having a row. Others stonewall and resort to passive-aggressive measures to get their point across. Neither is good.

Good communication is critical for a healthy relationship. You have to be able to discuss problems in an adult way. Small issues will snowball if you don't get them out into the open. Minor grievances fester in a dark room.

Always listen to your partner. Make sure your body language shows your listening. Be respectful. Don't roll your eyes or snigger if they say they are upset. Sit down and air your dirty linen. Give each other time and space to say what you are feeling and respect the other's viewpoint. Save your discussions for a time when the kids are in bed or you have space to work things through. If you can't talk without raising your voice or you are getting nowhere fast, ask a third-party to mediate.

Dealing with a Long-Distance Relationship

In today's modern age, long-distance relationships are common. We have to work abroad, spend time on the road, or perhaps we fall in love with someone on another continent. Long distance relationships often demand additional commitment and not all couples can make them work.

If you are in a long-distance relationship, be prepared to spend extra time reassuring your partner that you are there for them. Have 'date nights' where you sit and chat online. You can each prepare a meal and eat it together, on video chat. You can't have sex, but you can experiment with text-sex and use a webcam. Be open to new things and resolve to make it work.
Try and schedule a visit as often as possible. With the right approach, you can keep the romance alive for longer.

Unfair Divisions of Labor

We may be living in the 21-st Century, but women still do the lion's share of the household chores, even though more women than ever work full-time. This can lead to a great deal of resentment and anger. If a woman has been at work all day and is then expected to cook dinner, take care of the kids, iron, clean, and clear up the kitchen, the last thing she wants to do when she goes to bed is to have sex.

An unfair division of labor in the home will almost certainly lead to conflict in a relationship. If your other half is unhappy and you're not sure why - give it some thought. Are you doing your fair share? If not, now is the time to step up and do your bit.

Stuck in a Sex Rut

In the early days, all you want to do is rip each other's clothes off. Then, after about 18-months, sex goes off the boil. You can keep the passion alive!
Try new things. Read erotica, try sex toys, or watch couple-friendly porn. Push your boundaries and see where it takes you.

Don't let relationship woes spell the end of your union. If the above strategies don't work, book an appointment with a relationship counselor.