How to Make Your Relationship Better: 12 Tiny Things You Can Do Today

Like passing you the OJ at breakfast. Or walking the dog. (Taking these things for granted is a relationship no-no.)

It’s tempting to play devil’s advocate with the people you love, but sometimes—in the moment—they just need a listening ear. (Don’t worry, you can still ask questions and offer your two cents later.)

Sure, no one cares that there are pills on your panties or that you’ve reverted back to the comfort fit. But replacing a particularly stretched-out style every now and again is an easy way to show you’re making an effort—not just for them, but for you.

Another sign we take our loved ones for granted: It’s no big deal if we run five or ten minutes late, right? Surprise your partner by arriving on time or—gasp—early.

It’s called phubbing and it’s not cool. The number one sign of affection and attention: “No, of course, my phone isn’t as important as this conversation we’re having right now."

Yep, even if you walked in the door super late (and hungry) and they have their hands full wrangling the kids. That 30 seconds makes a big difference.

It’s also the easiest place to execute the above suggestion. “So, how was your day?”

Seriously, there’s no kinder gesture in the world than taking an annoying task off your S.O.’s plate. (Think grocery shopping, doing the dishes, or relieving the nanny if they're running late.)

Yay, it’s like you’re dating again. So simple, yet so fun.

You don’t need to go on vacation to experience something new—we’re talking about trying something way easier like cooking a new recipe together, taking a class or going for a walk in a new neighborhood. Just a simple change-up in your daily routine can make a world of a difference.

Simple as that. While watching TV or going for a walk, this simple act of affection will make your partner feel loved while simultaneously filling the physical need for touch.

Feeling down? Tell them. It truly doesn’t get more intimate than being vulnerable with one another. Plus, your partner isn’t a mind reader, so at least he/she will know what you’re going through.