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Moreover, compatibility in the couple's sense of humor can make a difference, too. "Compatibility in any form is important for relationship harmony, and having a shared sense of humor is part of that," Dr. Lewandowski said. "Being able to laugh together is an important part of friendship and the best romantic partners are also best friends. Humor is also a fantastic way to reconnect following conflict. Being able to laugh at ourselves or at the ridiculous things we’re arguing about helps get the relationship back on track."
There's often wisdom in silliness. "Memes are useful because they help us look at our relationship from a new perspective," Dr. Lewandowski added "Like a lot of humor, it disarms us by making a point in a funny context that makes it less personal, judgmental, or confrontational. When we let our guard down, we can gain new insights that ultimately strengthen our relationship."
But it all boils down to making a habit of being honest with each other. Dr. Bernstein emphasized that we need to remember that all relationships take work. There's no way around it. Everything that's worthwhile doesn't come easy. But the key here, the relationship expert said, is to ask ourselves is it work with a capital W or a small w.
"Big Capital W work refers to emotional abuse, active additions where partners refuse treatment, ongoing infidelity, and gaslighting. Small W work means managing stylistic differences, respecting each other‘s wants and needs, and communicating about the positives in the relationships as well as the struggles."