How To Be A Better Boyfriend – A Full Guide
trying to be a better boyfriend
Know Yourself and Communication
Understand Your Own Values
One of the most important things in any relationship is making sure that both people understand and respect each other’s values. Knowing what’s important to you and encouraging your partner to understand as well will make for a better relationship. Be mindful of what you value and be patient when expressing them to your partner.
Listen and Understand
Being a good listener and actually hearing what your partner is telling you is important. This is a great way to show your partner that you care and understand what they are telling you. Listening can also help you better understand your partner and how they think.
Be Open and Honest
Honesty is essential for a healthy relationship. Sharing what you are thinking and feeling in an honest and open way will create an atmosphere of trust and understanding. This means being willing to admit when you are wrong or have made a mistake. Honesty is key to good communication.
Show Appreciation
Showing your partner appreciation for all that they do is important. This can be as simple as a thank you or even a kind gesture. Letting your partner know that you value them and all that they do will ensure a stronger connection between both of you.
Be Flexible and Respectful
Being flexible and understanding in a relationship is important. Respect your partner’s wishes even when it is difficult for you. This will show that you value their opinion and will help build strong relationship bonds.
Prioritize Your Relationship
Make Time for Each Other
Taking the time to make plans and spend quality time with your partner is important. Show your partner that you value them by spending time together. This can be as simple as a morning walk, a movie night or an evening dinner.
Be Supportive
Show your partner that you are there to support them. Being supportive, encouraging and understanding will show them that you care and can create a stronger connection between you.
Be Adventurous
It’s important to keep your relationship exciting and engaging. Trying new things together can be a great way to spice up your relationship. This can also help you connect and learn more about each other.
Give Compliments
Compliments are a great way to make your partner feel special. Telling your partner how much they mean to you or how amazing they are can show them that you care and make them feel appreciated.
Be Patient and Make amends
Be Patient
Relationships take time and patience. Being patient and understanding with each other will make it easier to work through issues and keep your relationship strong.
Learn to Compromise
Compromising is important in any relationship. Learning how to compromise and find common ground will help you both be on the same page and build mutual understanding and respect.
Apologize and Make Amends
Being able to apologize and make amends is essential in a successful relationship. If you do make a mistake, apologize for it and talk about it with your partner. Being able to move on and make amends will help your relationship be stronger.
Resources
Relationship Advice | Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/relationship-advice
How to be a better boyfriend: Tips and advice: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/relationships/how-be-better-boyfriend
Relationship Tips – Best Relationship Advice for Women: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/relationship-advice/
How to Be a Better Boyfriend
What You Need to Know
Communicating with Your Partner
When it comes to making sure your relationship is healthy and strong, one of the most important factors is communication. It’s important that each person in the relationship is listened to and heard; that means active listening rather than just agreeing with what your partner is saying. Silence, disagreements, and even arguments are all part of being in a healthy adult relationship. Make sure that you both always remain respectful of each other when disagreements arise, and if you feel frustrated try expressing your feelings in a positive, constructive way.
Showing Appreciation
Let the person you love know just how much they mean to you. Show them daily affection, both verbally and physically, and be sure to tell your partner how much you appreciate them. A simple “I love you” or a hug can go along way in expressing our gratitude towards our partners, and helps us show that we care. It’s also important to recognize that everyone expresses their appreciation differently – for some, it may be a kind word or an act of service, while for others it might be requesting alone time or a gift.
Spending Quality Time Together
Set aside time each week to make sure that you’re spending quality time together as a couple. This could be a date night, taking a walk in the park, or anything else that you both enjoy. Quality time together doesn’t always have to be planned – it can be a spontaneous thing too. Taking even a few extra minutes out of your day to connect with your partner as a couple can make a huge difference.
Managing Conflict
Arguments and disagreements happen in any relationship. It’s important to talk through conflicts and express how you’re feeling in an assertive rather than aggressive or passive way. Remember that compromise is key – when two people are trying to come to an agreement, there may not be a “winner” or “loser.” Try to maintain a positive outlook during conflicts, and always stay respectful and empathetic towards each other.
Accepting Differences
No two people are exactly alike – so it’s important that you accept your partner for who they are. Support each others’ personal growth and listen without judgment or expectation. Remember that we all have our own pasts and experiences which shape who we are today – so it’s important that relationships of any kind are founded on an understanding of each other’s individual differences.
Prioritizing Intimacy
Intimacy doesn’t always have to be sexual – it’s important to build a strong emotional connection with your partner as well. Take the time to really connect with each other, and express how much you enjoy being together. Plan romantic or thoughtful dates or outings, and make sure to express your emotions and feelings without holding back.
Trusting Each Other
Relationships become stronger when there is trust between both partners. Trust is a two-way street, so it’s important to be honest and open about your feelings and show your commitment to your partner. Respect their privacy, give them space if needed, and always maintain an open and honest dialogue between both partners.
Learning from Mistakes
Making mistakes is part of life and it’s also part of relationships. When you make a mistake, make sure that you take responsibility, apologize when needed, and learn from the experience. If you make the same mistake again, acknowledge the fact and own up to it. Be willing to learn and make the necessary changes in order to have a healthy and successful relationship.
Discussing Commitment
It’s important that each partner in the relationship is on the same page when it comes to commitment and has a clear understanding of expectations. Talk about the future, how each person wants the relationship to progress, and any potential issues. Be open and honest, and be sure to listen to the other’s point of view.
Resources
American Psychological Association. (2017). Healthy Relationships.
Harriet Edwards (2017). 9 Ways to Be a Better Boyfriend.
Aliya Rasputin & Chris Reid (2016). 12 Ways to be a Better Boyfriend.
How To Be A Better Boyfriend – A Full Guide
Communication
Listen Up
One of the most important aspects of being a great boyfriend is being a good listener. You need to be able to listen to your partner, really understand what they have to say and give them your full attention. Ask your partner questions and really get to know them. Don’t just think of ways to respond or engage in the dialogue – just focus on what your partner is saying.
Be Honest
Open and honest communication is key to any successful relationship. To be a great boyfriend, you need to be honest with your partner. Any secrets – even seemingly minor ones – can quickly destroy the trust between a couple. If you make a mistake, you need to face up to it without fear.
Be Supportive
Don’t forget to be a supportive partner. You don’t need to be the center of attention all the time. Show interest in the things your partner cares about, even if it’s something you’re not particularly interested in. Remember not to criticize your partner’s goals and ambitions.
Respect
Respect your partner and your own feelings. Don’t ignore your gut instinct if something seems off. Respect your partner’s boundaries and don’t pressure them to do anything that they are not comfortable with. Act in kind and courteous ways.
Caring
Show your partner that you care. Give them a hug or a kiss when you see them. Take the time to let your partner know that you appreciate them and ensure that you spend quality time together. Take proactive steps in the relationship instead of treating your partner as an afterthought.
Romance
Make romantic gestures from time to time. This doesn’t mean you need to plan extravagant dates (though you can if you want to!) Simply take the time to share a nice moment or do something thoughtful. A romantic evening at home or a bouquet of flowers can do wonders!
Compromise
No relationship is without some kind of conflict, but taking the time to compromise and resolve those conflicts can strengthen the bond between a couple. Listen to your partner and really understand their position. If it’s something that you’re both passionate about, come to an agreement that works for both of you.
Patience
Finally, be patient. No couple agrees on everything all the time. And relationships take time and effort to nurture. By being patient and taking the time to understand each other, you can ensure that your relationship continues to grow.
References:
Gong, L. (2019). 15 Ways on How to Be the Best Boyfriend to Your Girlfriend. [blog] Thought Catalog. Available at: https://thoughtcatalog.com/lily-gong/2019/01/15-ways-on-how-to-be-the-best-boyfriend-to-your-girlfriend/ [Accessed 13 Mar. 2020].
Cline, P. (2014). 5 Ways to Be a Great Boyfriend. [online] Lifehack. Available at: https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/5-ways-to-be-great-boyfriend.html [Accessed 13 Mar. 2020].
Bustle. (2018). 10 Ways To Be The Best Boyfriend Ever. [online] Bustle. Available at: https://www.bustle.com/p/10-ways-to-be-the-best-boyfriend-ever-9353619 [Accessed 13 Mar. 2020].
How To Be A Better Boyfriend – A Full Guide
Understand What Your Partner Wants
The first step in becoming a better boyfriend is understanding what your partner wants. Everyone has different wants and needs, and your girlfriend may have different needs than someone else. Talk to her to get an understanding of what she needs from you in order to feel valued and appreciated in the relationship. Ask questions, listen to her answers, and then put them into practice.
Make Time For Each Other
Making time for each other is an important part of being a better boyfriend. When your partner feels like she is a priority in your life, she will be more confident in your relationship, as well as more satisfied. Quality over quantity is essential in relationships; it is more important to have meaningful conversations or experiences together than it is to just spend endless amounts of time together.
Be Supportive And Encouraging
Everyone needs a little support sometimes. When your girlfriend is having a tough day, be there for her to offer support and encouragement. This can be offered in the form of words, actions, and physical affection. Showing that you are genuinely there for her and you care about her wellbeing will help strengthen your relationship.
Be Honest And Open
Honest and open communication is important for any relationship. Be honest and open about your feelings and thoughts in order to build trust with your significant other. This also helps in resolving conflicts quickly and easily by avoiding secrets or misunderstandings.
Show Your Appreciation
Everyone loves to know that their efforts are being recognized. Show your appreciation for your girlfriend by spending time together, giving compliments, and expressing your love in both verbal and physical ways. It will also help your relationship to give reinforcement when it comes to how she looks and acts, so make sure you appreciate and recognize all her hard work.
Make Efforts To Grow Together
One of the best things partners can do in order to improve their relationship is to make efforts to grow together. Spend time exploring new activities or skills, try new foods, or take a trip together. It can also involve discussing deeper topics like relationship values, aspirations, and dreams. Whatever you do, make sure it is something that will help you to grow both as individuals and together as a couple.
Be Respectful
Respect in relationships is essential. Being respectful to your girlfriend means you will treat her with kindness and consideration. It also involves communicating in a positive way and not trying to control her decisions or behavior. Lastly, respecting her opinions will go a long way in improving the relationship.
Resources
- 10 Qualities of Being the Numero Uno Boyfriend
- How to Be a Good Partner
- 7 Ways for Men to Be Better Partners
How To Be A Better Boyfriend: A Full Guide
Set a Positive Tone
Listen
Good communication is key to any relationship, and it’s especially important with your romantic partner. When your girlfriend is talking to you, give her your full attention. Listen to what she’s saying so you can pick up on her feelings, and respond with understanding. Ask her questions to move the conversation forward and keep her engaged. People like to feel heard, and being an active listener is a great way to show you care.
Be Supportive
People don’t typically seek out relationships that make them feel worse about themself. As a boyfriend, it is your job to be supportive and encourage your girlfriend. That means letting her share her aspirations with you, helping her through stressful times and celebrating her successes. Show up for her in every way and try to make her feel like she can rely on you, no matter what.
Consider Her Feelings in Big Decisions
Relationships involve two people, so it’s important to take your girlfriend’s feelings into account when making decisions. Consult her before big life changes or holiday plans, and when you need to compromise on something, make sure it’s a two-way street. Being a good boyfriend means trying to reach the best outcome for you both.
Be Positive & Compliment Her
Positive reinforcement is a good thing in any relationship, and this definitely applies to being a better boyfriend. Give your girlfriend genuine compliments when she’s achieved something, either professionally, academically or personally. Make an effort to stay light and positive in any conversation, and be sure to express gratitude for all she does for you.
Be Honest & Respectful
A good boyfriend is trustworthy and reliable. Show your girlfriend respect and honesty, and don’t let your words or actions cause her unnecessary pain. Respect her boundaries and trust her with your feelings, thoughts, and worries. She needs to feel safe and respected in the relationship, and that starts with you.
Be Consistent
Be Loyal & Faithful
One of the keys to being a better boyfriend is loyalty and faithfulness. Being in a relationship means giving your partner your energy, understanding, and trust. That means being honest — beyond just not cheating — and supportive when your partner is feeling down. A good boyfriend understands that trust is essential for a healthy, long-term relationship.
Be Dependable
No one wants to feel let down. To be a better boyfriend, work on following through on your promises and finding ways to boost her confidence in you. Show up on time if you have plans, and don’t take longer to text back or reply to her messages than you would if she were a friend. Ultimately, being a better boyfriend means showing your girlfriend she can depend on you.
Show Your Love
Be Thoughtful
We all like being thought of, and there are lots of small, thoughtful actions you can take to make your girlfriend feel special. Surprising her with her favorite flowers or bringing her coffee in bed are small gestures that can make a big difference. Being mindful of the things she loves and giving her gifts that suit her specifically can show your efforts extend beyond obligatory occasions.
Spend Quality Time Together
Making time for your girlfriend is essential — the more intimate time you spend together, the closer you are. Listen to her stories, be curious about her life and show her that you’re interested in her. Together, you can plan out holidays or regular dates to look forward to and explore new places. Keep the communication up and make time to connect, bond and laugh together.
Be Patient & Open-Minded
Be Patient
Patience is important for any relationship. No two people are the same, and everyone deserves to be heard. Listen to her views without interruption and be open to her ideas, even if they’re different to yours. Let your girlfriend know she’s heard and valued, even if you can’t agree on something.
Be Open-Minded
It’s easy to become rigid in relationships, and a lack of flexibility can damage your bond. To be a better boyfriend, it is important to keep an open mind and remember that things will come up that you might not have expected. Try to be open to change, accept honest feedback and don’t be scared to try new things with your girlfriend.
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