Recipe for Love

1) Start with a big bowl of Selflessness

Put your sweetheart's well-being above your own. Consider his/her feelings, be it in everyday matters such as where to eat and what movies to watch, or in major decisions such as buying a big-ticket item or making a career move. It won't always be easy, but practice makes perfect

2) Pour in a cupful of Patience

Recognise that no matter how compatible you two may be, you are still unique individuals with different views & temperaments. Don't try to change him/her. Focus on what makes you love him/her. Listen to and understand his/her perspective. Avoid personal attacks and finger pointing (eg. "you always/never"). Above all, know that you can't always have it your way, so give and take with a smile.

3) Add a dash of Humility

Don't let your pride have the last say. Be humble and accept that your sweetheart may sometimes have a better idea than you. If you are wrong, say sorry. He/She will love you more for that. Recognise that you are not without your flaws.

4) Stir in a spoonful of Kindness

Kindness is underrated, especially for couples who have been married for awhile. Don't let it be that way. If you can be courteous to strangers on the street, surely you can be extra nice to the person you love. Say thank you, excuse me and please generously.

5) Sprinkle a palmful of Graciousness

Don't be over-calculative with time & money. It is healthy to spend alone time with one's own friends and on one's own activities on a regular basis. When it comes to expenditure, work out a budget of what is a comfortable amount to spend on little individual luxuries & how often. Then allow each other the leeway to do so without interfering.

6) Dribble a generous amount of couple time

Spend alone-time together on a regular basis, be it half-an-hour breakfasts at the coffee shop before work or dinner dates once a month. Celebrate special occasions that are unique to the two of you, such as anniversary of your 1st date, 1st kiss, ROM, wedding.

7) Throw in some slices of level-headedness

Arguments are bound to happen but don't say spiteful things you might regret. If both of you are fuming, agree to cool off before confronting the issue again. If the issue cannot be resolved just as yet, call a truce and agree to problem-solving again soon. Agreeing to disagree is a win-win situation. Most importantly, don't go to bed angry and let your ill-feelings fester (and also remember to not to keep record of wrongs!)

8) Spice things up with surprise galore

Put a smile on your sweetheart's face. Perk up his/her day with a lovingly-prepared meal. Sneak love notes into his/her briefcase/handbag. Send your beloved cheeky SMSes of love during the work day. The possibilities are endlless.

9) Top it all with dollops of Passion

Cuddle, hug, kiss, hold hands, rub noses, exchange sweet nothings. Remind your sweetheart through actions that you love him/her very much. It will be well reciprocated & appreciated.