All my life I've been in long term (sometimes long distance) relationships. I have been dating since I was 15 years old and I have been single for a total of seven months (I am currently 20). (First bf: 3 years, Second bf: 2 years 2 mo) What does that say about me? Well, two things:

1) I'm one of those insecure chicks that constantly needs to be in a relationships to reaffirm by being or

2) I know what I'm doing and possess the key ingredients to keeping a long term relationship.

So what are these ingredients?

Be Honest
You think this would go without saying but how many guys can attest for a girl who said, "Oh, I don't mind," when in all actuality, she DOES mind? WTF is up with that?

So girls, really, be HONEST. If you're not okay with him dating other people in the early stages of the relationship, SAY SO, because no guy is going to assume otherwise.

Guys, if you're not into us, then say so. (I realize that some of you already do this and girls are crazy so they don't listen, which brings me to the next rule.)

Be Rational
My last relationship lasted 2 years and 2 months. Never once did I give my guy the silent treatment. Why? Because that's RATIONAL. It is rational to ask for some time to cool off after a fight. But it is not rational to give a guy the silent treatment just because he "should know what is bothering me." HA. Guys don't know when they piss you off (unless it's intentional), you have to let them know.

The key to being rational is taking an issue and putting the emotions aside leaving you with the objective things to analyze. Fighting with emotion doesn't get anyone anywhere, but having a discussion with key points and a well-thought out objective does.

Be Romantic
Yes, it is cheesier than hell but once in a while, you have to have a picnic or buy her flowers for no reason. The kind of "first date" environment renews the relationship and keeps it exciting.

Be Chill.
Hang out with each others' friends. Girls, go grab a beer and wings at the local bar with his buds. Dish out on the latest sports stats or simply talk about the last time to scored an awesome goal in a friendly game of soccer. Guys, allow her to take you to a fancy schmancy event and show off how awesome your mingling skills are. The fact that you're able to be (or seem) comfortable in her environment will make her proud.

Be Flexible
No one can know where a relationship is headed right off the bat. Sure, you might have some idea where you'd like it to go, but don't count on it. It takes the fun right out of the now and that what you really should be enjoying. Enjoy your SO's company and quirks, in the NOW because if you don't, you might be missing the entire story.