People make achieving a happy relationship harder than it has to be. Like a great recipe the simpler the ingredients the better the outcome. So here is my list of ingredients:

Passion-Passion gets couples through the tough times. It’s like the glue that keeps a relationship together.
Values-You and your partner don’t have to agree on everything, or how to run your life, but your values have to be aligned.
Similar Interests-It really helps to like doing things together.
Patience-There are times that patience with your partner is important.
Humor-There has to be something in your partner that makes you laugh and smile.
Friendship-Can you call your partner your best friend? If the answer is yes you have already won half the battle.