1. Don’t attack, blame, or criticize.
 If something’s wrong, don’t start yelling or pointing fingers. Calm down first, then explain what happened and how it made you feel.

2. Don’t complain in the moment.
 If you’re upset, take a few minutes before you talk or text. Then say, “I’d like to share something when you have time,” and pick a calm time to talk.

3. Handle your emotions before talking.
 Don’t come to the relationship full of anger, frustration, or old pain. If you’re triggered, pause, breathe, go for a walk, or write it out first.

4. If you need emotional support, ask directly.
 Say, “I’m feeling low — can you listen for a few minutes?” Don’t make it a fight or guilt trip.

5. Respect personal space and freedom.
 No controlling, guilt-tripping, or demanding constant attention. Both people need time alone to stay healthy.

6. Speak calmly and respectfully, no matter what.
 No yelling, cursing, or name-calling. Use a tone that builds safety, not fear.

7. Listen to understand, not to win.
 Let the other person finish speaking. Don’t interrupt. Repeat what you heard to show you understood.

8. Take breaks when emotions are high.
 If one person says, “I need 20 minutes to calm down,” it must be respected. No chasing, texting, or pushing during that time.

9. Focus on your part first.
 Before saying “you did,” ask “what’s my part in this?” Taking responsibility earns respect.

10. Don’t bring outside anger into the relationship.
 If something else upset you, process it first. Don’t dump it on your partner.

11. Respect parenting boundaries.
 If one person has kids, the other respects how they raise them. No interference, judgment, or overstepping.

12. Fix things fast — don’t drag fights.
 Apologize when wrong, accept apologies when given, and move forward. No silent treatment or emotional punishment.

13. Learn and grow together.
 We must both educate ourselves about relationships — not rely on instincts or emotions only.
 Required books:

14. Create calm before deep talks.
 No serious discussions when angry, tired, or emotional. Wait until both people are calm, then schedule time to talk respectfully.

15. Show appreciation daily.
 Say thank you, compliment effort, and notice the good. What you focus on grows.

16. No threats or ultimatums.
 Never use breaking up, leaving, or withholding affection as manipulation. Stay, talk, and resolve.

17. Support growth, not control.
 Encourage each other’s goals, hobbies, and friendships. Don’t clip wings — help each other rise.

18. Always choose peace over ego.
 If the choice is between being “right” or being close, choose closeness.