1. Make sure that your friendship is stronger than your romantic interest.

Although it took what seemed like forever to reach their first date, Jim admits that he had always liked Pam—even when circumstances kept him in his own "friendzone." Through it all, they both stepped back and remained respectful towards each others' unlucky relationships in order to preserve the friendship which they both valued more than their own romantic intentions. Their platonic bond serves as an essential underlying base to the overwhelming true love that comes to surround it later. Without having a strong connection on multiple levels, your attractions will be shallow and empty at the end of the day.

2. Don't be afraid to unleash your inner dork.

If spending late nights together doesn't feel like a fifth-grade slumber party, you're doing it wrong. One of the most memorable moments of the show was when a man Pam went on a date with years prior admitted that he had never called her back because he "thought she was dorky." Jim cuts to a camera interview where he is genuinely shocked and confused, as he couldn't imagine how this wouldn't be even more of a reason to call her. Opening up your truest fun inner self is what will bring out the same in your partner. Hiding yourself to keep a superficial image will only leave you with stiffness and insecurities.

3. Know how to swallow your pride to make your partner smile.

Pam and Jim may not have won the Halloween costume contest of season six, but they sure did win my heart. Dressed as Olive Oyl all day long, Pam was sorely disappointed in Jim for not playing the role of Popeye. He revealed later that he never enjoyed dressing up for Halloween, even as a child, but eventually ended the episode in full costume just to put a smile on Pam's face.

4. Support each other selflessly.

Jim encouraged Pam to follow her dream of graphic design and was genuinely happy when she was accepted to a college two hours away. While they both recognized an engagement was just beyond the horizon, they temporarily put aside their dreams for a future together to make room for Pam's dreams of self-improvement. Without growing as individuals, you will never be able to cultivate a successful long-term relationship. Everything is a give-and-take, and sometimes you have to be willing to give a lot more while keeping a smile on your face.

5. Don't expect perfection in nine seasons—these things take time.

Remember—take things at your own pace. Jim and Pam happened to be working in the right office at the right time. Life isn't always a fairy tale, so having expectations set by a fictitious TV series can only take you as far as you're willing to work for them.