by Rachel Funk

Created on: November 04, 2009   Last Updated: November 05, 2009

Building the "perfect" relationship can be a daunting task, filled with unachievable goals. When instead you strive for the perfect relationship for you, then the outcome is a satisfying relationship built on shared values and goals rather than what outside influences such as society, or in some cases even friends and family, see as ideal or perfect.

One thing to remember, nothing is perfect for everyone. What works for some may spell disaster for others. Trying to force a relationship into a predetermined mold can ultimately cause resentment and hostility, there is no advice that will fit each and every relationship, but there are some pieces of advice that may help keep a relationship satisfying.

Embrace the differences! No two people are exactly alike, the same still applies when people get married. Signing that piece of paper and saying "I do" doesn't mean you have to let go of all things that made you individuals and meld into a single unit that is never apart. Unfortunately, many people see that as their life once they are married. They let their personal interests go, they spend less and less time focusing on what gives them pleasure and instead spend all of their time with their spouse. While paying attention to each other and doing things together should be an important part of a relationship, it doesn't have to be everything. Understanding that time spent pursuing individual interests, be it fishing, painting, taking walks alone, the activity doesn't matter, it's allowing each other, and yourself to enjoy being the person you are. And if to do that you need time apart, allow that to happen. Stopping individual growth will stifle the things that attracted the two people to each other in the first place, as well as plant the seeds of disquiet in the heart. Allowing time apart gives each person the freedom to grow as a person and giving them both a rich and satisfying life that will be reflected in their relationship together.

Play 'remember when'. The beginning of a courtship is typically marked by an intense surge of emotion and attraction as two people meet, get to know each other and form a bond together. Every nuance is adored, the quirks are intriguing and a delight to the new lovers as the things they do set them apart from the crowd and make them special in their new love's eyes. Unfortunately, in every relationship, time marches relentlessly forward and with its passing, there is an ebb and flow of feelings. The intensity burns away, leaving

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