Falling in lust is easy — but staying in love over the years is what’s difficult. So how do you get a man to not just fall head over heels but stay love-struck with you throughout the test of time? No relationship is 100% guaranteed (we can’t tell the future, after all). Still, there are a few foolproof tips that can ensure that even throughout the difficulties you face as a couple, he’ll remain deeply in love.
1. Exude confidence
We all have our insecurities, but there’s something about a naturally confident woman that drives a man crazy. When you’re confident, you’re aware of your self-worth. You come off as sure of yourself, which, in turn, will make others sure of you. Appreciating yourself will help highlight your good qualities to him. Plus, confident people often aren’t naturally jealous (unless there’s a good reason to be), which is a positive quality.
2. Respect his independence (and foster your own)
Co-dependency can kill a relationship. Don’t suffocate him by wanting to spend every moment together. Space is good for both of you — spending time with your friends allows you to fully relax and even vent to your buddies in a healthy way. The same goes for alone time.
3. Be honest
Deception can make someone fall out of love with you fast. No one wants to get cheated on, but beyond infidelity, hiding any truth from your partner creates a shaky foundation that may not be possible to come back from in the future. To ensure a true connection, be upfront from the start.
4. Leave the past in the past and don’t hold a grudge
Everyone has a past, and people have arguments. If you keep rehashing the same problems or getting upset about something that neither of you has the power to change, it will lead to an abundance of negative energy in your relationship. Communication is important, but sulking or holding a grudge will get you nowhere.
5. Be direct
When you first meet someone and fall in lust, part of the fun might be in the chase. But when it comes to maintaining a serious relationship, it’s better not to play games. Being direct will get you everywhere. Don’t have them play a guessing game if you’re upset. Be direct with both desires and dislikes, and it won’t just make him stay in love—it’ll keep you happy, too!
6. Have a sense of humor about things
There’s a time and place for serious conversations, but having a good sense of humor and staying playful through the years ensures that he’s not just in love with you but considers you his best friend as well. Embrace joy and laughter. Have spontaneous adventures, and don’t be afraid to have a bit of banter to keep that chemistry going.
7. Be attentive and appreciate him
This is a two-way street, of course, but often, people fall out of love because they’ve gotten so used to their partner that they don’t show the same attention and appreciation as they once did at the beginning of the relationship. It’s the little things—cooking for them, planning a date night with their favorite activities, and complimenting them!
8. A strong sense of self
Some women think that a man wants someone who will agree with them all the time. But in reality, a woman with opinions of her own is more than sexy and exciting—she’s worth staying in love with. A woman who has a critical mind and independent thinking can inspire a man to see things in a new light. It also shows that a person is authentic.
9. Passion
Over time, emotional and physical attraction may wane, but there are several strategies to maintain its intensity. While it may be tempting to consistently wear sweatpants and cozy attire once in a relationship, occasionally dressing up, both in and out of the bedroom, can significantly enhance your relationship. Trying new things and being adventurous (again, both in and out of the bedroom) can also revive that spark.
10. Support
Sticking together through the tough times helps solidify a bond and take things to the next level. It’s proof that you’re not just going to run away at the first sign of a challenging time. It’s easy to stay during the good times, but when you support them through the bad times, it shows resilience, which is a vital quality in a long-term partner.
