Relationships are one of the most important parts of living a full life. They provide us with a sense of belonging, help us manage stress better, and can add years to our lifespan. However, not all relationships are healthy and it is important to evaluate them on a regular basis. This can help you determine if they are providing you with the satisfaction you need or if they are unhealthy and causing you pain. If you are not satisfied in your relationship, take steps to make the necessary changes before it is too late.
In a relationship, the person you spend time with is someone who makes your heart race, and you feel tingles in your fingers when you think about them. They are your confidant, best friend, and lover all wrapped up into one person who teaches you things about yourself that you wouldn’t have learned otherwise. They are the person who laughs at your jokes and holds you tightly when you’re having a bad day. They are the person who is there to drunkenly dance with you, or take you to that awkward family gathering. They are the person who makes you feel beautiful, and they remind you of how much they love you every single day.
However, “relationships aren’t limited to romantic or sexual partnerships,” explains Morgenstern. Loving relationships can be platonic, non-romantic, or romantic without sex or physical intimacy, and each type will have its own characteristics and benefits.
A good relationship is a partnership in which both people are healthy and happy as individuals, each with their own identity and interests, but they also share common goals and values. They are both invested in the relationship and its success, and they support each other in their goals and dreams. They work together to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. They respect each other and their differences, and they are able to compromise when necessary.
Healthy relationships are mutually beneficial and are based on trust. Both partners are able to communicate openly and honestly with each other, and they listen to one another with empathy and genuine interest. They share information about their experiences, feelings, and opinions and encourage each other to grow and change. They are dependable, and they follow through on their promises and responsibilities.
When a relationship is unhealthy, it is often due to a lack of communication and an imbalance of power. In these cases, it is a good idea to seek out a counselor or therapist for help. They can help you establish clear boundaries, set realistic expectations, and even help you terminate a toxic relationship when it isn’t worth your time anymore.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to relationships is that you can’t “fix” someone else or force them to be the perfect partner for you. You must be a happy and healthy individual, and then you can attract others who are also happy and healthy individuals.