Living with a partner is a big step to take in a relationship and one that can sometimes add a few minor issues for couples to overcome. Cohabiting with someone new can bring changes to all of the little things that used to shape your lifestyle and this can prove irritating for a lot of people.

This article presents three golden rules to prevent cohabiting couples from going off the rails.

1. No smothering

One change that can affect the harmony of a lot of couples is the increased amount of time they end up spending together. It's important to plan activities that involve a bit of time apart, whether it's in-house or away from the home.

Those with lofts, basements or metal garden sheds may want to consider converting them into a games room or study where either partner can spend a bit of quality alone time.

2. Compromise

It's inevitable that some elements of your day-to-day life will change when cohabiting with a partner; however you may not be happy about some of those. The solution to this problem is to compromise so you each get an equal share of your preferences.

For example, take turns deciding what to cook, what to watch on television or who does the chores. Relationships are all about compromise and living together will help a lot of couples realise that.

3. Communicate

Living together makes it easier to spot a partner's little habits that, for some reason, can drive you insane. Whether it's leaving the toilet seat up or down, shouting from room-to-room or leaving the TV on standby, the solution is to let your partner know how annoying you find it.

The chances are they might not know how much this habit is affecting you. If they love you, they should make at least a small effort to try and stop or at least reach a compromise. The worst thing you can do is let these little annoyances build up inside you.

Posted by : Amit12
@ Sep 30, 2011