This blog applies to those in a loving relationship, those in a struggling relationship, as well as those willing to embark (again) in the possibility of a relationship. The concept of love is a complex adventure. Yet, it is as simple as a healthy set of lungs taking in air. Loving friends and family poke fun in the fact that I have been married more than once. While I wish my path was different, I never gave up on love. I understood what it looked like, felt like, sounded like, and was like for me. “I was going to do this until I got it right.”

I sat sipping my favorite iced tea writing one afternoon at a coffee shop. I looked up and noticed a woman crying. She was quietly talking to another woman I assumed to be her sister. With each word that she shared the pain of her impending breakup resonated within my soul. She made mistakes, he made mistakes, her words, ‘how did we get here’ hit a cord. When is it that people give up? What pushes us in or out the door? Throughout my life experience, I have learned that the most important work I will do is connecting and understanding others. The most critical energy I can and will expend is summoning the courage to love.

How do you stay madly in love? How do you love when you just feel mad?

Know and be connected to yourself. Some of our greatest work, in the whirlwind of our day, is the ability to stay connected with who we are. Regularly, spend time alone connecting with yourself. Spend time experiencing the positive and negative attributes of you. Your personal insight heightens your understanding of your authentic being. It is only at this point that we are able to truly give of our self in a relationship.  The concept of accepting and loving our self is a top priority in building a healthy partnership. Commit to and carve out your alone time today!

See your partner as their authentic being. I have heard it said that the very attributes that attract us to our mate will be the character traits that drive us crazy with frustration down the road. What we thought was cute and endearing in the early days, will be seen as irritating and ridiculous as time moves forward. Honestly see your partner for who they are. Be willing to see them for the good, bad, and realistic qualities they possess. It is unreasonable to believe we can change another. If it doesn’t fit in the beginning, don’t push it. If they aren’t meeting our needs early on, it will probably not improve over time. Understand, accept, and embrace your partner. Allow love to move your relationship forward, but give it a fair chance by recognizing who they are.

Celebrate the gift of today. The magic present when two people come together as strong empowered individuals can change the world. Step into today with knowledge, insight, patience, and love. Entering your relationships confident and strong promotes a healthy starting point. Lift your head and heart high; celebrate the possibilities awaiting you!

How will you summon the courage to step into love today?