How to Be a Good Girlfriend Even during the Rough Patches ...

When things are a little tricky between you and your boyfriend, it's easy to focus on his flaws and get even more cross with him. But his flaws are part of him, and nobody's perfect. It's far more realistic to accept him as he is, rather than wishing he was something he's not.

Supporting his decisions is one way of being a good partner, even if you don't always agree with them. You do have a right to be concerned how his choices will affect you, but equally he has the right to make those choices. Maturity means supporting what our loved ones do, even if we don't always understand or agree with them.

Men have a reputation for never wanting to talk about their feelings, but that's not always true. If he needs to talk, be there for him. If you're having problems, talk about them as adults; don't distance yourself or flounce off in anger. Mature people discuss their issues. And try to 'read' him, so that you can tell when he needs some gentle encouragement to talk.

Every relationship has its rough patches. There isn't one single couple in the history on mankind that's never had an argument! So sometimes the best thing you can do for your partner and your relationship is wait it out. Don't assume at the first sign of trouble that your relationship is doomed! See it as something that's perfectly normal - you have to take the rough with the smooth.

We can be rather selfish in relationships and see ourselves as the priority. But remember that it's not all about you. His feelings and thoughts count as well. Sometimes it's only fair to let him follow his own path, so if you're getting cross with him because he wants to do something you're not happy with remind yourself that there are two people in the relationship.

The best relationships are between people who are willing to stick it out and work at it. It can't be all romance and flowers, and we need the tougher times so that we can appreciate the better times. Be a good girlfriend by putting the effort into the relationship.

Finally, as well as being there when he needs to talk, you should also know when it's better to give him some space. As much fun as being in a relationship can be, it can also be intense and sometimes a bit stifling. Know when he needs to be by himself, and don't push him to always put you first.

Being a good girlfriend doesn't mean being a doormat, but rather being accepting and considerate of his feelings and needs. Do this, and your relationship will be stronger. What do you think are the three most important aspects of a relationship?