6 qualities
of a healthy relationship.
Every relationship is different. However, every healthy relationship has similarities. In a healthy relationship, the existence of certain qualities is paramount. It’s imperative for you and your partner to possess positive characteristics because it will allow you to bring out the best in each other.
Although relationships aren’t perfect, there are still strong predictors that will help increase the quality of your relationship. Take a look below at the six major qualities of a healthy relationship. If you’re in a relationship, ask yourself if you practice these traits, and whether your partner reciprocates them. If you feel like your relationship is lacking these vital characteristics, it might be wise to reassess the quality of your union.
Loyalty.
Loyalty is one of the most important characteristics of a healthy relationship. It makes your bond with your partner unbreakable. Relationships can’t survive without commitment and trust. Honoring your promises and staying true to your word will only strengthen your relationship. Therefore, it’s extremely important to have candid dialogues with your partner about what you are expecting from them. The definition of loyalty can unfortunately be blurry. So don’t be afraid to be crystal clear about what kind of commitment you are envisioning in your relationship.
Respect.
You can’t love someone if you don’t respect them. Whether it’s respecting their space, views or time, a relationship requires understanding when it comes to these issues. Respecting boundaries will only help your relationship become healthier and stronger. For instance, if your partner is having a difficult time opening up about their past experiences, you have to respect that. Even if you don’t receive immediate satisfaction with their visceral reaction, they will eventually come around because you gave them space to open up to you. Ultimately, when your partner feels doted on, they will naturally respect you. And if they don't, then that’s a clear sign you are not with the right person.
Open communication.
Communication is the cornerstone to any healthy relationship. Being open and honest (without hesitation) about how you are feeling will only strengthen your relationship. However, it’s important to note that everyone communicates differently. Some people communicate with words, and others communicate with action. Learning how your partner expresses their thoughts and feelings is a crucial step that shouldn’t be discounted. Don’t be discouraged if your partner communicates differently than you. Just be open to understanding their approach and meet each other halfway. The rest will fall into place.
Kindness.
You can’t be in a healthy relationship if you’re not kind with each other. You want to bring out the best in each other. You want to both feel safe. By being gentle with your partner, you’re not only making them feel cared for, but you’re also allowing them to feel safe. In return, they will become vulnerable and share all their insecurities, thoughts, emotions and feelings with you. You’ll both genuinely feel comfortable and protected. Essentially, kindness is the bedrock foundation to any relationship.
Independence.
To some degree, everyone is codependent in a relationship. However, it can be extremely dangerous if you’re codependent with your partner about everything. Having a sense of independence is a key element to a healthy relationship. Establishing independence can take many forms; whether it’s maintaining your own hobbies, friends or career. For instance, you don’t need to constantly spend every minute of the day with each other. In fact, spending some time apart is a good thing. This will allow you to miss each other. Giving each other space is necessary for establishing your own identity. If you become completely codependent in your relationship, you will lose yourself. Having your own life is just as important as having a life together with your partner.
Appreciation.
Discussing the importance of appreciation in a relationship is such an underrated topic. When someone genuinely feels appreciated, they will go the extra mile for you. This is because you made them feel satisfied, cared for and loved. Constantly expressing gratitude towards your partner will never harm your relationship. You both will become happier, stronger and healthier- which is the ultimate goal. Basically, try your best to never take your partner for granted. In return, they will feel appreciated, and thus, love you endlessly.
"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."
– Marcel Proust