How to Cultivate Your New Relationship

You met someone great, and now you've been dating a few weeks. You're excited and scared at the same time. Will it last? Will it be as exciting and wonderful as you imagine it to be? How do you ensure things will work out?

Unfortunately when it comes to love and life, there are no guarantees. But there are things you can do to help grow this relationship together with your significant other to make it a blissful experience. Take advantage of the excitement and euphoria you feel and put that energy into building the relationship. Here are some tips for you:

Tell him/ her how you feel. There's nothing like affirmation to keep a relationship on higher ground. Saying "I love you" is a huge part, but also encouraging your partner goes a long way. Let him know that you're proud of the work he's doing, or that she is the most exciting and interesting person to be around. Think about it. When someone you are dating tells you how wonderful he thinks you are, you can't help but notice and feel great.

Spend quality time together. Instead of going to dinner and perusing your smartphones for the latest text or tweet, or taking that work phone call, put your phone down. Pay attention to the person sitting across from you. Engage fully. After all, your love life is just as important as your career and friendships for long-term happiness. Show your new love that he/ she takes priority when you're together.

Share. There's nothing more exciting than a new relationship where you're learning about each other all the time. Don't be the person who wants to play your entire music collection for your partner and have her be as enthusiastic about it as you are - rather, share your tastes with each other. If your preferences differ, then you just have more to add to the relationship. You wouldn't want to date yourself anyway! Sharing is important and builds mutual respect and understanding.

Resist criticizing. It might be tempting to start listing your date's faults to try and get him to change. I mean - things are great but they could be amazing except for this one thing, right? This type of thinking is a mistake. Criticism only leads to resentment, so practice holding your tongue if you're prone to want to change your dates. You don't want to end up a nag. If you're truly incompatible and the differences start to appear more substantial, then you may want to reconsider the relationship.

Show affection. I'm not just talking about sex, although your physical relationship is an important part. The way you show your date how you feel through holding hands, touching his face, or rubbing her back all show your affection. When you aren't showing physical affection outside the bedroom, it can make your date feel isolated or rejected. Be aware of how you come across.