Whether we’re dating, living together, or already married, relationships are a big part of our lives. They help form our social support network, which is pivotal to mental well-being. The word “relationship” is used to describe such a variety of connections that it’s difficult for everyone to agree on one definition, but most people would probably agree that healthy and fulfilling relationships have the following characteristics:
They prioritize spending time together. This can include anything from date nights to family dinners. But they also recognize the importance of personal space and time spent doing their own thing, like relaxing alone or pursuing a hobby. They also understand that each person’s needs ebb and flow, so they may need to negotiate or talk over some aspects of their relationship structure based on individual personality traits and circumstances.
When they argue, they do it constructively. They listen to each other carefully and make sure they understand their partner’s point of view. They also share their own feelings and perspectives without blame or judgement. Healthy couples are not afraid of (respectful) disagreement.
They share household chores and responsibilities, but they also each have their own hobbies and interests. This balance is different for every couple, but it’s usually a mix of giving and taking that works best for them. They share physical and emotional intimacy but they don’t control or force each other to do things they don’t want to. They trust each other, and they know that they can rely on each other for support.