Gifts, compliments and a loving embrace go a long way, especially when they are a surprise to your spouse. Send unexpected greeting cards, slap a Post-It note where you know your other half will find it, keep those flowers coming in a “just because…” way. Treat your spouse with the same courtesies you did when you were dating. A terrific mindset is to pretend you are trying to win your partner all over again.

Sixty-one percent of happy couples say their spouse makes them feel good about themselves, versus only 27 per cent of moderately happy and unhappy couples.

Related: 10 Things All Successful Marriages Have

Harvard researchers say that couples who express the most empathy and affection are most likely to stay together for the long haul.

Resist the urge to interrupt. This shows your partner that he or she can feel open and safe with you, say experts.

Do you smile when your partner comes home and shares news of a work achievement? In a study of 79 couples, partners who shared excitement for each other’s achievements had the most satisfying relationships. A celebration provides the opportunity to boost ego and reinforce your status as a team.

You might wish for him for to be more chatty or be more organised. But these are traits that probably drew him to you in the first place. So, instead of trying to fight with their personality styles, focus on their strengths.

Spend time every day on your appearance and your physical well being. Work out regularly, eat healthy and stay fit. Not only will your spouse like looking at you, but you’ll feel better about yourself.

Play tennis, jump in the pool, or head to the batting cages so you can support each other while you work on your health.

Red: 5 Things You Can Do That Ruin A Marriage

Many relationships fail because of misunderstandings. If there is a hint or vibe that your spouse is disconnected or you are unhappy about something, do not ignore those signals or feelings.

Have an open discussion. Your goal should be to resolve differences and the only viable way of doing so is through open and direct communication.

Whether you’re at a party, a business meeting, or just strolling down the street, give him or her subtle signals of your connection. Hold his hand. Smile at her. Put your arm around her. And never, ever, make fun of your partner in public.

Three out of four happy couples are satisfied with their lovemaking, even if its frequency has diminished over time.

Read: Can Your Marriage Survive If Your Spouse Is Addicted To Sex

Text: Bauer/ Good Health/ Additional Reporting: Shenielle Aloysis