Finding and hanging onto a boo (or two) isn’t a one-and-done proposition. It takes effort from all parties to keep it.

Here are some things you can do every day to make sure your love is secure and growing. They may seem obvious or simple, but too many couples and throuples forget them.

Put down the phone

Talk. Ask questions. Listen.

Respect Each Other’s Independence

“You are you, and I am I, and if by chance we find each other, it’s beautiful.” – Fritz Perls

Love Their Pets

And you thought impressing the in-laws was important.

Cook & Eat Together

Humans spend most of our downtime eating. Cliché or not, our stomachs really are on the path to our hearts.

Strategic Use of Teeth

Yes, exactly what it says.

Make Them Laugh

And make sure their jokes make you laugh as well. Looks fade; a sense of humor is forever.

Get Along with Their Friends

If mutual friendship isn’t happening, mutual respect must.

Dote on Them

Show how much they mean to you, take an interest in their stuff, and never take their presence for granted.

Take Care of Yourself

Not just for them, but if you feel healthy and sexy about yourself, so will they.

Sex

Lots of it. Lather, rinse and repeat.

This article also appeared in Q ATLus magazine. Read the latest issue online here:

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