Given him space. Having time apart as a couple strengthens the relationship and allows you both an opportunity to appreciate and miss each other. All good and positive factors. Encourage him to make time with his friends and don't pout when he takes you up on the offer. Instead, seize the opportunity to take time for your friends or even just for yourself. A guy will feel more inclined to stand by a girl who is secure enough to stand on her own.

Trust him. According to livestrong.com, trust is "The ability to let others into your life so that you and they can create a relationship built on an understanding of mutual respect, caring and concern to assist one another in growing and maturing independently." Do your best to leave behind you any insecure, nontrusting baggage you may be lugging around due prior relationships. As tempting as it may seem, this means no checking his cellphone when he leaves the room or attempting to hack into his social networking pages. If you have any questions about your boyfriend's past or behavior, just ask him.

Use your words. Communication plays a crucial role in the success of your relationship. If you feel upset, concerned or disappointed about something that has transpired between the two of you, don't play the exhausting game of him asking, "What's wrong?" and you snapping back, "Nothing, I'm fine!" Instead, have a direct and honest conversation about what has you clearly feeling anything but fine. He may not always agree with your perspective on the issue, but he will respect you for giving it to him straight.

Take accountability. We all make mistakes in our relationship. However, taking an honest inventory of our wrongdoings can really make a significant impact with the person we are dating. Admitting your missteps will let your boyfriend know that your relationship ranks on the priority list and reveals your willingness to work on your less than stellar performance as needed.

Forgive him. Inevitably, your guy will make some relationship errors all his own during your courtship. Sometimes his actions will warrant an angry outburst. However, for minor infractions, take a deep breath and attempt to travel the ever-elusive high road. Have a calm conversation about the incident and then move on. Your boyfriend will appreciate knowing that every little thing will not wage a relationship war between you two and he will likely feel more inclined to stick around and make things up to you.