Maintaining a long-term relationship in life requires a lot of work. The initial stages of a relationship are often considered the best. With every conversation and every touch we want more and more. After a while, these feelings of excitement can be replaced by boredom.

With a little effort, you can keep your relationship alive, of course, if you care and if you want to, writes "24sata.hr".

1. Both in the relationship should make an effort

We grow up in a world that tells us that love and sex are easy if we are with the right person. Social networks present us with a distorted picture of love and life, which in reality are not so fairytale. Love therapists claim that many couples struggle to maintain their long-term relationship alive.

If you love your partner and he loves you, it's time to start trying and fighting with all your might. An "eclipse" can occur in any relationship, which is perfectly normal. However, what matters is how you deal with it.

If only one partner is struggling and trying to keep the relationship alive, we can tell you right away that this is not a good sign. It takes two to love. Investing in your relationship should not be a difficult task. Spice things up, bring back the romance, reminisce about the old things you did together, reminisce, go to dinner, if you stop doing something you used to do, try again and so on.

2. Making your relationship work can be a lot of fun

A few things to try include recalling fun memories, surprises, rendezvous, and trying out something new in the bedroom.

If you are looking for ways to connect on a deeper level, many therapists advise 36 questions. Based on a research experiment, the 36 questions are designed to create a connection and, perhaps, even love, between complete strangers.

The questions range from simple to slightly ticklish, for example: Do you want to be famous? What do you want to do? If these are the last two hours of your life, who would you spend them with? "Who would you call?" and similar.

3. Knowledge of the language of love

Everyone understands and receives love in a certain way. Specifically, there are five, and the concept is called Five Love Languages, written by relationship expert Gary Chapman in The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts.

First language: Words and compliments

Use words to strengthen the relationship. Verbal compliments do not have to be complex. Short and simple words and sentences can also be effective. For example: "Thank you for dinner", "Your hair is especially beautiful today", "I am proud of you" and similar affirmations. Partners who "speak" this language respect praise and a kind word. On the other hand, negative comments and carelessness with the choice of words can harm the partner. That guy will need more time to forgive the words spoken by others.

Second language: The importance of works

For people who "speak" another language of love, deeds mean more than words. Do not just promise, but take action. Do what makes your partner happy, and before that, research and think about the things he or she wants. These can be simple everyday gestures. Wash clothes, clean the house or make lunch. Occasional romantic gestures are always welcome. Surprise your partner with a romantic outing or dinner. By your actions you show that you care about your partner and your life together. If you are not sure what your partner wants, be open and ask.

Third language: Receiving gifts

The gift gives the partner the knowledge that he is respected, loved and important. People who "speak" this language think mostly about the work and thinking that preceded the gift received. It does not have to be big and expensive. The intention and desire to make your partner happy is important. Choosing the right gift shows that you understand and know your partner well, and most importantly - that you listen to him. That way you maintain love and affection. Give in a special way and express your gratitude when your partner gives it to you.

Fourth language: Quality common time

For them, time together is most important. Only the two of you and quality socializing in private is the key to happiness for a partner who understands the fourth language best. Of course, in that case the conversation is important, whether it is serious or not. Technology has taken its toll, so there is less and less face-to-face conversation. Instead of a movie on TV, take your partner for a walk or cook together. In doing so, disconnect from the rest of the world.

Fifth language: Physical touch

People who understand the language of touch best need more physical intimacy than others. It can be holding hands, kissing, caressing or hugging. They non-verbally express their love and affection. Physical touch is a direct way to pay attention, while calming and healing at the same time. Find ways to express your love with physical touch. In this case, your partner says nothing more than touch. Touch your partner's hand, hug him or kiss him good morning.

4. Attraction and desire can be reawakened

Do not focus only on the physical side of attraction and sex. Although your partner initially attracted you with his appearance, the attraction is often multifaceted and depends on many different things. For some it is the way their partner sounds when he laughs, for others it is the way he smells, the jokes he tells or the way he showers them with attention.

Focus on the real things that used to be attractive to you and you may start to feel that attraction to your loved one again, writes Your Tango.