Getting into a relationship is easy, but keeping it alive is the difficult part. There are plenty of things, big or small, that can wreck an otherwise great relationship.

Now, Dr Barton Goldsmith, a California-based psychotherapist and the author of 100 Ways to Boost Your Self-Confidence -- Believe in Yourself and Others Will Too reveals what all can kill romantic relationships and how to save it from falling apart.

1. Money: It's the root of all evils, as they say. If a partner has been unscrupulous, getting the trust back can be a challenge, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

Illustrations: Rediff Archives

A sexless marriage or unfaithfulness can extinguish love quicker than blowing out a candle. Don't let the flame burn out and try to renew your sex life.

Research shows that belittling, insulting or yelling at your partner can cut the chances of your relationship's survival.

Some live for them, others would rather kill themselves. Make sure to keep things in balance with your partner, so you have the energy to deal with any child issues.

If you don't want your spouse/partner to dine out and have drinks with a member of the opposite sex, then you need to follow the same guidelines.

Don't hold your pain, hurt or anger inside. If you are harbouring some resentment talk it out and put the matter to rest, so you can enjoy your relationship.

Even if you're afraid of getting in trouble, tell the whole truth and don't break promises, and find a way to make up for past mistakes.

Keeping a relationship is hard work, and if you are unwilling to do it, your connection will diminish and you will begin to resent your partner.

If you punish your partner when you don't get your way, or if the two of you give each other the silent treatment, you are headed for a lifetime of emotional pain. Stop the nastiness and learn to talk about it.

If you are living in a construction zone, it's pretty hard to feel comfortable. Injury or illness can create a similar situation.

Your home should be a place of serenity, so if you are remodelling or are dealing with physical issues, make your comfort a priority.