In modern life, many people are so busy that they barely have time to talk to their partner. We get home, log on to our computer or tablet, and forget the most important things: sharing, asking how the other person is, and creating moments that strengthen the bond. A walk, a movie, a kind gesture… these are small actions that lift each other’s spirits and keep the connection alive.

True happiness, José María assures, arises when we turn toward others. Focusing only on our own interests reduces our capacity to love and, with it, our happiness. That’s why it’s essential to learn to communicate well, avoiding accusations and generalizations and instead asking respectful questions and making comments: “Are you listening to me?” instead of “You never listen to me.”

It’s essential to recognize that arguments will occur in every relationship, but these must be handled with a steady hand. Speak-up impulsively can create deep wounds in the heart, difficult to heal even when the other person understands our good intentions. Wounds are healed with positive gestures and understanding, not with reasoning.

Another key aspect is truly listening. We often think only about rebutting what the other person says and don’t listen carefully. We also shouldn’t exaggerate our partner’s flaws or expect them to act the way we want them to. Understanding their feelings and giving them space is essential to avoiding unnecessary suffering.

Conscious communication also involves agreeing with the other person on small matters, giving in on certain points, and practicing mercy. Loving involves not making the other person suffer needlessly and knowing that the problems aren’t within the marriage, but rather within the attitudes each partner has toward it.

In conclusion, being happy as a couple requires intention, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn how to communicate and care for others. Listening, understanding, containing anger, practicing compassion, and valuing the other person’s feelings are essential steps to building strong and lasting relationships.

Nurturing communication and affection is not only a gesture of love, but a path to true happiness.