World leaders in relationship research, Drs John and Julie Gottman, following decades of studies, have discovered a little magic. They have uncovered quite a few facts about successful relationships.
However, they assert that one is paramount. And, this is the magic relationship ratio of 5:1.
According to this amazing finding, successful and long-lasting relationships must have a ratio of five positive interactions for every single negative interaction. The Gottmans discovered this is what makes the difference between what they term the “masters” and the “disasters” of relationships.
So, whilst “disasters” drop below 5:1, masters work at keeping their positive to negative ratio of interactions at 5:1 or above. Research found sometimes the “masters” achieved a ration as high as 20:1!
Most positive interactions in relationships are small, everyday gestures of kindness, affection, and appreciation. Dr John Gottman says successful relationships are built on “small things often”. If think (or know) you are falling short of the magic 5:1 ratio in your relationship, you might try creating a few positive, daily rituals of connection in your relationship.
Here’s Dr John Gottman explaining the magic 5:1 ratio click here .
If you think you might benefit from couples’ counselling, for an appointment with Chapman Marques Psychology & Relationship Counselling, phone Chapman Marques Psychology & Relationship Counselling on 1300 308 610.