Making a Relationship Work

There's a lot to be said for compatibility when searching for a long-term mate, but all successful relationships take effort, patience, and communication. Some web-based matchmaking services are now attracting millions of subscribers based on the promise that they can find your perfect match or soul mate. Some employ extensive online tests to assist in this worthy endeavor. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claims these services make. Compatibility cannot be determined by a computer program. Even in relationships that are loving and effortless, stress and time can bring out characteristics in people that will tear the best relationships apart. Don't count on compatibility, attraction, or even love to be enough to keep things going. Even the best long-term relationships take work. Get counseling proactively, before things get tough. Renew and refresh your relationship every day. Don't take any aspect of your relationship for granted. Allow yourself to become a more loving, giving person, and grow upward and outward all the days of your life.

Robert Epstein, Ph.D., Host of "Psyched!"