5 ways to foster warmth, love and intimacy in your relationship

Most lasting couples have learned to devote time and attention to their relationship every day. Some very simple steps can help bring big results; the examples below will show you how the little things can go a long way.

• Alright, so you both prefer different types of films – one likes sci-fi, the other prefers historical dramas.
• It doesn't matter. To find common ground, select films for the characters, not the genre.

• Does your partner have a big meeting or lunch with an old friend? Is he or she dreading a phone call to an important client?
• Talking about the daily details of life is just as important as sharing hopes, dreams and fears, so showing a genuine interest is a great way to build understanding and rapport.
• And don't forget to ask how that meeting, phone call or lunch turned out. Your thoughtfulness will make your partner feel loved and cared for.

• 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 hands or put an arm around one another. Smile at him or her. And never, ever, make fun of your partner in public.

• If you want a job done, such as a shelf put up, make sure you ask, rather than demand.
• We all tend to respond better to requests than orders.
• For example, instead of saying, "You should …" say, "Could you …?" And instead of saying, "Why didn't you …?" say, "Next time it would help me if you could try to …"

• This may seem odd at first. But consider this: if you and your partner discuss what's bothering you in a structured, formal way, these issues won't come up so often at other times.
• Make the meeting formal. Sit down, turn off the television or computer and let the voicemail handle any calls.