Anthony Meerak, Gleaner Writer

Surprise your spouse with a teddy bear with a personal note attached to it.

Everyone enters a relationship hoping that it will be successful. Here's the skinny on keeping your relationship alive and full of fun:

'Planned' spontaneity - Being spontaneous without some sort of plan can be stupid at times. Imagine buying tickets for a Caribbean cruise, and then presenting it your spouse by telling her that you guys are going on a trip this weekend. It's a very caring act but pointless if it doesn't coincide with her vacation. Try to find out your partner's daily routine and plan your spontaneous acts around it.

Reading is fundamental - Communication is a major issue in any relationship. Hence, anything that can improve it should always be welcomed. Reading the same book or an article and analysing it together will ensure that you communicate, and can help you understand how your partner thinks. It's more meaningful if the book is about relationships, whether it's lovemaking or managing finances. It's sure to stimulate exciting conversations.

Stop criticising - If it is not crucial, don't criticise your partner. It is not a good form of reinforcement. Try appreciating the person for their positive attributes and use more uplifting words when addressing your significant other. Perhaps he is not domesticated, but he ensures that he pays all the bills. Always remember that the grass may not be greener on the other side, and what you have, others would consider it a treasure.

Slow down - Sometimes, we are so determined to accomplish our goals that we lose focus of our priorities. We come home tired from work, take a bath, watch TV and then sleep. All this is done without spending quality time with our significant other. Perhaps we are mentally exhausted and can't engage in a lengthy conversation, but there are other ways to communicate love and appreciate. One such way is to touch each other more. That means more hugs and kisses.