Relationships aren’t always sunshines and rainbows. Even couples that have been together forever might occasionally struggle to feel truly secure, loved, and connected. It takes conscious effort, self love, and commitment to maintain a healthy, long-term relationship, but Harvard psychologist Dr. Cortney Warren believes there are seven daily phrases you can use to help keep your love alive and strong.
Warren explains, “As a Harvard-trained psychologist who works with couples, I often tell people that emotional security in a relationship starts with seeing yourself as worthy of love, and trusting that your partner is accepting, caring, and truly committed—through the highs and the lows.” She believes that these seven simple phrases “should be relationship goals for all of us.”
Check out the seven phrases below, and if you’re in a a relationship, try saying them to your partner to help make them feel loved. You can also find more relationship tips from Warren on TikTok.
Harvard psychologist Dr. Cortney Warren believes that using these seven phrases you can help keep your relationship strong.
1. “You see me as I am.”
A big part of a healthy relationship is showing up with authenticity, even if it means being vulnerable. This phrase lets your partner know they’re seeing the real you, without masks or defenses. By using this phrase, you’re telling them that you trust they’ll meet you with compassion instead of judgment. Saying it not only invites closeness, but also reinforces your commitment to do the same for them in return.
2. “I trust you.”
Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, but saying it out loud really helps to build on it. When you tell your partner, “I trust you,” you’re affirming that you feel safe with them, that you believe in their intentions, and that you know they have your best interests at heart.
3. “We’ll get through this.”
Conflicts and challenges can test any relationship, but giving reassurance that you’re still a team, no matter what, reinforces your bond. Telling your partner “we’ll get through this” will help them feel more secure and ready to face any future hurdles together.
4. “Go out and have fun with your friends!”
It might seem obvious, but every healthy relationship should respect each person’s need for independence. This phrase lets your partner know it’s okay to take time for themselves, and that you value the same kind of freedom in return.
5. “I miss you.”
Giving space is healthy, but it’s also nice to let your partner know you’re thinking of them. Saying “I miss you” isn’t clingy—it’s just a simple way of showing you care and that you’re looking forward to being together again. After all, “absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
6. “Can we talk?”
Good communication is the foundation of any strong relationship, and that includes the tough conversations. Saying “Can we talk?” shows your partner that something matters to you, and it invites them to listen with care.
7. “Let's make a plan!”
Whether you’re planning your next date or dreaming about the bigger picture, making future plans shows you’re both committed and reminds your partner that they’re a meaningful part of your life.
Dr. Cortney Warren: TikTok
Source: Couples who ‘truly trust' each other regularly use these 7 phrases, says Harvard-trained psychologist—they're ‘relationship goals'
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