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No one is perfect. Therefore, there is no such thing as a perfect, fairytale relationship.  When two people fall in love, they are transformed from independent strangers with no romantic connection into interdependent partners in an intimate relationship. Newfound love is easy because it's new, exciting, and exhilarating, but for most people the difficult part of a relationship is maintaining it and keeping their partners happy.  It's no secret that relationships generally become less fulfilling as time passes, and while relationships aren't all the same, here are some simple, proven tips that can help all couples keep their bond going strong. 

1. Be Respectful

A relationship should be a safe haven where partners can trust and share openly without being afraid.  That means learning to fight fairly by not interrupting your partner, calling your partner names or using threats.  If you're too angry to listen to another word coming out of your partner's mouth, go into another room, distance yourself and calm down.  Then initiate the discussion when both of you have a clear head. 

Another way to show respect for your partner is to mind your manners. It can be easy to forget to say "please" and "thank you" when you've been in a long-term relationship and things start to become routine.  However, just a simple gesture of appreciation can help your partner feel respected, loved and not taken for granted.

2. Quality Time Is A Must

Quality time is not sitting next to your partner with your eyes glued to your phone. Just because you're sitting next to your partner doesn't mean your spending time together. Find a sport or a hobby that you both love, whether it is biking, dancing, cooking or building new furniture, and do it together.

3. Spice Things Up With A Little Variety

Numerous studies have shown that dullness almost always leads to dissatisfaction. Spicing up the relationship with a little novelty is a great way to keep you and your partner from getting bored.  Trying something new can mean dining at a new restaurant or traveling to a new country together.  New experiences couples make together will help preserve the intimacy and love in a relationship.

4. Give And Take

Giving and taking all the time will surely make any relationship go sour.  Giving all the time can breed resentment and taking all the time can lead to apathy.  If you want to your partner to do something for you, the best way to avoid an argument it to reach an agreement in which both backs get scratched.  So the next time you want your partner to take you to see a chick flick, compromise by watching Monday Night Football with him. 

5. Sometimes, Absence Does Make the Heart Grow Fonder

A little space never hurt anyone. Keeping up with your friends, having your own interests and occasionally having a night out without your partner can actually help your relationship grow stronger.  Not only will a weekend trip with your buddies (without your significant other) make you and your partner miss each other more, it'll also help you keep your friends... just in case you need a shoulder to cry on when the relationship doesn't work out.