14 Strange But Brilliant Relationship Hacks Anyone Who's Been With Their Partner Forever Should Know

Safe words are common in movies and in, you know, other areas of relationships, but what about when it comes to everyday conversations or arguments? According to Evolution Counseling, having a safe word during your fights can save you from unnecessary trauma, distance, and hurt.

It can be as simple as "time out," or something silly to lighten the mood, but once it's said, you both agree to take a break from the conversation until you can regroup and calm down.

Does your partner loathe doing dishes and you hate folding laundry? Swap "chores" and take their hated task while they shoulder yours. It will always feel like they're doing you a favor while you'll feel like you're helping them out too.

It's almost too simple, but if you or your partner struggle to make up your minds about, say, where to go have dinner or what movie to see, you need to try this method. According to Life Hacker the 5-3-1 method goes like this: one partner picks five options (say, restaurants to try), the other eliminates two, leaving you with three, then the first partner eliminates two more, leaving you with your choice. Genius.

This tip comes from Reddit, via Your Tango. "When I'm angry, I excuse myself and I go take a shower," shared one Reddit user on a thread about relationship tips. "It relaxes me and I think more rationally so that I can fight fair or apologize afterward. By the time I get out, one of us is usually sorry anyway."

Although not technically a tangible "hack" this little relationship tidbit can save you from years of conflict. Psychology Today noted that while criticism is usually an obvious "no no" for new relationships, when you're in a long term partnership, it is easier to forget as little "annoyances" creep up. Correcting your partner (otherwise referred to as nitpicking or even "constructive criticism"), however, can cause your partner to feel unloved and hurt. "Unconditional acceptance is the name of the game," the aforementioned article noted, and if you've been in a relationship for long, you'll quickly realize this to be true.

Dating doesn't stop after you get married, or you move in together, or you get comfortable enough to start pointing out their atrocious morning breath. An article from Mic pointed out that the happiest couples are the ones who never stop dating each other. Specifically, taking time to be with each other, even after a long day with the kids, or an exhausting day (week, month) at the office.

And no, not for that reason. Men's XP sneakily suggested that people nab their lady's hairdresser's number and get an update each time they get their hair (nails, brows... anything for that matter) done. That way, they'll be well-equipped with a compliment, even if it's just a trim.

An article from Buzz Feed wisely pointed out that sometimes taking action is the sexiest and most helpful thing to do in a relationship. For example, if your partner has had a bad day, don't ask, "Would you like to see a movie tonight?" in an effort to cheer them up. Instead, take charge and say, "Get dressed, I bought us tickets to see that movie you've been wanting to watch!" And then go have fun.

The aforementioned Men's XP article also suggested keeping a secret list on your phone (or, on paper, if you're super old school) of things your partner loves or mentions that they want. When it comes time to get them a gift, choosing the item will be a breeze.

Although many partners simply want to help their partners by solving all of their problems for them, Psychology Today noted that simply listening can solve the issue easier than providing an actual solution.

When you see each other at the end of the day, don't focus on the negatives first. Be sure to point out your favorite thing about the day, even if it's as simple as seeing a cute puppy at lunch. It will start your evening off on a happy note, instead of a depressing one.

This brilliant hack comes from a BuzzFeed article by Summer Anne Burton. "Take it upon yourself to freely admit that you were wrong on a fairly regular basis," Burton wrote. "You'll find that it's actually freeing, and your partner will appreciate it and start taking after your example."

This relationship hack comes from ScoopHoop, and it's pretty clever. If your partner ever asks you to pick him or her something up from the store, like razors or pads, grab a couple extra and hide them in your car or somewhere safe. Then, the next time your honey runs out, you can save the day!

Although it may sound trite, as Elite Daily pointed out, the couple that cooks together, stays together. I'd also add that cooking foods that may not be your favorite for your partner can earn you major brownie (or, you know, spaghetti) points.

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