7 Strategies to Strengthen Your Relationships in 2025

Relationships are intricate and beautiful aspects of our lives, deeply influencing our well-being just as much as our diet and sleep habits.

This is why The New York Times’ Well section places a strong emphasis on relationships, seeking insights from top researchers and therapists on how to nurture our friendships, marriages, and family connections — and what challenges these bonds face.https://wordpress.com/

At times, the advice shared can feel ambitious and long-term, while other times, it’s refreshingly straightforward and actionable. With that perspective in mind, here are seven standout relationship tips from experts over the past year.

1. Refresh your friendships.

To deepen your platonic relationships, consider “repotting” — a concept introduced by psychologist Marisa G. Franco, author of Platonic. This involves shaking up how you engage with a friend. For example, invite a coworker to join your book club or suggest an “awe walk” instead of your usual happy hour. Novel experiences can strengthen your bond and allow you to discover new dimensions of your friendship.

2. Watch out for “yellow flags” while dating.

When dating, many are skilled at spotting glaring “red flags,” but “yellow flags” — subtler signs that warrant caution — can be harder to identify. Jancee Dunn, a Well columnist, highlights some indicators: Does your date label all ex-partners as “crazy”? Does your inner circle have reservations about your relationship? These may not be deal breakers but are worth examining more closely.

3. Master the art of “I statements.”

“I statements” are a cornerstone of effective communication, often recommended by couples counselors to avoid blame and foster understanding. The formula is simple: “I feel [emotion] when [situation occurs], and I need [specific request].” For instance, instead of saying, “You’re always on your phone at dinner,” try: “I feel disconnected when you check your phone during meals, and I need your full attention at the table.”

4. Avoid dismissive phrases in times of grief.

In a society often uncomfortable with grief, it’s easy to fall back on phrases like “everything happens for a reason.” However, grief experts, including David Kessler, caution that such remarks can feel dismissive. Instead, offer heartfelt condolences or share cherished memories. Presence and sincerity matter far more than platitudes.

5. Reflect on your relationships with a “relational reckoning.”

No romantic partnership can fulfill every need, says family therapist Terrence Real, author of Us: Getting Past You and Me to Build a More Loving Relationship. Periodically assess your relationship with this question: “Am I receiving enough to accept what’s missing?” Real emphasizes that embracing each other’s imperfections is key to lasting intimacy.

6. Stop comparing your sex life.

Sex therapists frequently remind people that there’s no universal standard for intimacy. Lori Brotto, a psychologist and author of Better Sex Through Mindfulness, notes that focusing on frequency or “normalcy” often detracts from joy. A better question to ask is: Are you enjoying the intimacy you share?

7. Host gatherings purely for connection.

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, a celebrated sex therapist, spent her later years addressing loneliness. In her final book, she encouraged people to host gatherings without keeping score. Bring loved ones together simply because it brings you happiness, not because you expect anything in return.

These nuggets of wisdom remind us that relationships, though complex, can be enriched with intentional effort and small, meaningful changes.