Introduction

You might have heard the saying, "You can't fix a broken relationship with the same mindset that broke it in the first place." That's true. But you can definitely make your relationship better -- if you're willing to put in some work. Here are five ways to do just that:

Listen in a new way.

• Be present.

• Don’t interrupt.

• Be aware of your body language and tone of voice, as well as your nonverbal communication.

• Ask questions to clarify what you are hearing from the other person, such as “What did I just hear?” or “Why do you think that happened?”

Schedule time for intimacy.

Schedule time for intimacy.

Commit to spending quality time with your partner, even if it means having to rearrange your schedule. Intimacy is not just a matter of sex; it’s also about kissing, cuddling, holding hands and enjoying each other’s presence in more subtle ways. It's important to remember that your relationship needs attention outside the bedroom as well as in it—so put aside a few minutes each day for just being together without distractions like television or your phone ringing every 20 minutes!

Do something unexpected.

• Surprise your partner with a small gift.

• Do something nice for them.

• Order them their favorite takeout and have it waiting for them when they get home from work.

• Do something unexpected:

• Make an extra effort to remember things that are important to your partner, like anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions (e.g., “I know today is our wedding anniversary! I hope you don't mind me stopping by unannounced—I just wanted to drop off this little token of my affection).

Practice gratitude.

It's a way of life, really. The benefits are many and varied. For example, gratitude helps you appreciate what you have. It also helps you see the good in your partner—and since we all have different perspectives on situations and events, this can help create harmony in the relationship as well.

To harness the full power of gratitude and all its benefits, try incorporating it into your daily life by writing down three things each day to be thankful for (they don't have to be related). While it may seem like this practice is only beneficial for people in long-term relationships or marriages where they've been using their spouse's name longer than any other word (yes), studies show that practicing gratitude even just once per week can increase relationship satisfaction by 20%.

Check in about your sex life and your financial situation -- and be honest with yourself.

• Discuss the things you both want and don't want.

• Be honest with yourself and your partner about what you need to be satisfied in the bedroom.

• Ask questions, listen carefully, and don't try to change your partner's mind just because they're different from you (and vice versa).

These things will help improve your relationship now

• Listen in a new way

• Schedule time for intimacy

• Do something unexpected

• Practice gratitude

• Check in about your sex life and your financial situation -- and be honest with yourself

Conclusion

The key to a good relationship is being honest, open, and willing to listen. We all have our faults, but it's important to work on them together so that you can be the best person possible. If you're in a relationship right now and looking for ways to improve it, don't hesitate -- start today!