Relationship Advice
Let's Start At The Very Beginning...

When it comes to effective and SANE relationship advice...

There are so many.

Some for those beginning a relationship, some for those going through terrible times in their relationships, and some for those who are learning to cope with a breakup - that it's impossible to roll it all into one quick 'n' easy fix-it-all guide.

But there are some common mistakes that couples make that lead them to various problems.

Good relationship advice starts with the beginning of the relationship.

When starting off with someone, know yourself first...

What are you looking for? Is your partner in tandem with your needs?

Offering a one-night stand to a girl looking for marriage is not only unfair - it's downright cruel.

If you are out to have a fun time, say so. Look at your past. Do you have anything stinking and decaying in that proverbial closet?

Bring it out, dry it in the sun and then chuck it. Don't bring ghosts from the past into your present. Never put yourself on a pedestal, you will fall from it shortly enough.

This is a common enough mistake that many young people make. They project their good 'selves' and curb their natural selves. Once the relationship begins, these little demons will start poking you in all the wrong places.

So...

Be your natural self. Let the other person see the actual deal he or she is getting.

If your relationship has been going steady for a while, but you still feel the need for some relationship advice, that means that there are issues that are dormant but potentially dangerous lying around like land mines.

In case you are wondering what that sentence meant - it's just this: you are in trouble!

Do something...

If you feel that the zing has gone out of your relationship, first analyze the cause. Is it emotional or physical? Are you both spending enough time with each other?

Often, partners lose track of each other in the great stampede towards kindergarten, childcare, office problems, promotions etc.

Take a break...

Go to a romantic getaway. In America, there are some great places like Tennessee, Los Angeles or Detroit. Choose the spot that most intrigues you from future articles on these topics.

If you are facing certain specific relationship problems like financial burdens, 'in-law' troubles, dirty fights, or just understanding men, you will have to get specific relationship advice on that topic.

But one common issue is that most partners cannot and do not show patience. There are far too many allegations flying about and many times like a Frisbee they come back at you with twice the force.

The capacity to listen is one of the main ingredients in any relationship. Sometimes the messages may be loud and clear, sometimes they may be silent but equally painful.

If your partner suddenly starts to freeze you out, becomes disinterested in sex or is low-key most of the time, investigate.

There are specific tips on how to handle a long distance courtship in articles coming later on.

When 'recuperating' from a broken heart, always remember that the end of a relationship is not a death knell.

This relationship advice is easy to give, but hard to take.

Though it is easy to say so, life does go on. You will meet somebody else and in the meantime, keep yourself safe and healthy.

Your self-esteem may have taken a sound beating.

So...

Join a group activity. If you like painting or drama, get into a class.

Meet others and feel your self worth slowly rising up. Sharing your pain with others also helps you to get over the pain.

Whatever your problem...

Relationship advice is always 'easier said than done'. You will need a lot of patience and high commitment to see it through.

But hey, if you have a mate who is wonderful enough, why not go the extra mile?

P.S. Please tread carefully if you're thinking of dating married men