If it is expected to thrive and also stand the test of time, romantic love does require a significant emotional investment on the part of both people involved. The following suggestions are offered as a guide for new couples who are looking to develop emotional intimacy:

• Individually, it is important for each person involved in a romantic relationship to be comfortable with him/herself and be willing to open up and share him/herself with a partner without fear of judgment. Emotional intimacy cannot flourish unless each person has achieved a certain level of personal, emotional maturity that will pave the way for a mutual understanding of each other to develop.
  
• Spending quality time together on a regular basis is absolutely vital to the development and maintenance of emotional intimacy between two people. No matter how hectic life may get or how many other priorities may be tugging at your sleeves, it is important to always keep a romantic partner at the top of the priority totem pole. Quality time can be something as simple as discussing the happenings of the day with each other, having a meal together or sharing a comfortable silence at the end of a long day. The most important thing is for partners to make a daily effort to connect with each other in some way.
  
• Converse openly and freely with one another about anything from every day little things to more meaningful discussions about hopes, dreams, fears, and aspirations. Couples that are emotionally intimate are ready, willing, and able to open up to each other at any time without fear of being a burden to or being judged by their partner. Also, it is important for couples to openly address any issues or problems that come up in their relationship and that have the potential to pose a threat to the emotional glue that keeps them together. Human beings are fallible creatures and as such, should be expected to make mistakes from time to time. Far too often, however, couples are inclined to avoid conflict by brushing little disappointments under the rug but all that does is lead to resentment and additional problems coming up down the road. By being straightforward about feelings and making a genuine effort to resolve problems before they get out of hand, many couples can save what might otherwise be a doomed relationship.
  
• Maintaining a feeling of mutual respect and appreciation is also a vital part of emotional intimacy between two people.