Most pride themselves on their individuality but if relationships are any indication of that individuality, we’re more similar than we like to think. We each have our own love style and take our own approach to relationships but there are those common relationship problems everyone runs into at some point in his/her romance. You can probably list a few right off the top of your head. These relationship issues are annoying and frustrating but they happen. Let’s go over five of the most common relationship problems.

1. Compromised communication

Many of us have no problem expressing ourselves in other instances but love and devotion seem to compromise our communication skills. The truth for most is, after some time passes, you just get lazy in the communication department. Couples, whether married or not, have to commit to sitting down on a regular basis and chatting about the important things along with displaying a certain level of receptiveness during these talks. In addition to that, we all have to become more mindful of how we talk to loved ones. Mindfulness combined with putting positive language to good use drastically improves communication. As long as both halves feel heard and understood, even talks about insignificant topics strengthens a bond. Also, do not forget about nonverbal communication.

Being in love brings a deep connection that you don’t have with another person. Taking the time to understand how each other’s minds work improves nonverbal communication. Being able to give your partner a look and know what he/she is saying is beautiful. Work towards that goal by really talking and talking often.

2. Sex

Sex is another biggie often found at the top of the list of marriage problems specifically. In many cases, one person is interested, the other is not and before you know it, there are issues. Needs must be met in order for a relationship to work. Intercourse is more than physical satisfaction. That part of it is great but when sex leaves a relationship, couples miss out on connecting emotionally and mentally.

Sex is a very intimate act that involves chemistry. Hormones are released to keep the chemistry alive and the intimacy promotes closeness. Sex also has a special way of helping us better understand our partners. Rather than allowing sex to lead to other relationship issues, make time for it and take the steps necessary to ensure that both partners enjoy it. Try new things, explore, play and get a little wild. For many, anticipation is all he/she needs to get back in the swing of things so mark in on the calendar (a personal calendar of course).

3. Money

Another on the list of marriage problems but can happen in any partnership are money problems. Money can cause tension in relationships. Life isn’t perfect. Some are in debt, others are quite frugal while many have a hard time reaching their financial goals. Whatever the issue is, you have probably been aware of it for quite some time. Rather than allowing money to continually cause conflict, develop a solution together. Come up with a plan, decide what each other must do to improve finances, follow through, check in often, and see your situation improve. Couples can get so caught up in their worries and concerns that they spend more time fighting than working on improving the situation. Money is a tough topic but when frustrations concerning it are properly addressed, communication remains open and both partners actively work towards a goal or solution, it no longer burdens the relationship.

4. Trust

Oftentimes, trust issues are simply insecurities rearing their ugly heads but it can also be a result of an event that happened in the past. Whatever the root of the problem is, address it immediately. Trust is a necessity in any healthy relationship. If insecurity is the problem, it is time for self-reflection and self-improvement. Partners can actually work together to build confidence both individually and in the relationship which will establish more trust. As for the past being the root of the problem, work through it together and take the steps to rebuild any lost trust. Establish an understanding with one another, apologize, if necessary, be open and honest about where you stand, ask your partner to do the same, commit to following through on promises made and support one another during this process. Those having difficulty with the process may want to consider seeing a counselor that specializes in relationship/marriage problems.

5. Time

Many relationship problems stem from lack of time. A relationship requires that both partners devote enough time to it. This involves spending time with your partner like going on dates and making time for intimacy, taking the time to focus on their needs, them doing the same for you and so forth. Schedules can get in the way of this but taking the initiative to fit love into your schedule does a lot of good. Although time is important, focus on quality more than quantity.