I love to be in a relationship because relationships are a little universe apart from the rest of the world, with their own rules and history and style of interaction. Don't be afraid of anything. I know what you mean wanting to avoid the pitfalls, but strangely enough, in my experience, reaction to tense moments have played a strong role in developing the soul of my relationship. We remember those moments. Without mishaps and struggles, there are no stories to tell.
One of the most important things I do is take time away. A night with the girls, a class, work, a weekend with family or friends. It often happens naturally, but if it doesn't, I must plan it. Time away keeps me grounded in who _I_ am and my own thoughts, feelings and priorities. And likewise for him. It is so important to both people to maintain their individuality because that is what attracted us to one another in the first place. When people blend together, relationships lose their charge. I also strongly believe that absence makes the heart grow fonder. A night or a weekend away is a very good thing.
Teasing is a good thing, interpersonally and sexually. It is important to remain sexual. Some people in relationships lose that and I think it is very sad. Who else will you be flirty with and teasey with? It is important to feel desirable and to be desired and so it is for your man, too. Stay in shape. Dress like a girl or like a woman. And be sure your partner turns you on. Sex classes can be good for that. And I would avoid going as a couple, because it is fun to bring back new knowledge.