Relationships are the connections between people. They can involve a romantic bond, affection, and care. They can also be sexual or non-sexual, intimate or distant. Most of us have multiple relationships in our lives. We have friends, family members, coworkers, casual acquaintances, and significant others. Relationships are the foundation of our lives and can have a profound impact on our happiness.
Some relationships are more significant than others. The closeness of a relationship depends on the emotional intensity involved and the level of trust. Some relationships are casual acquaintances, where we might meet someone in a store and exchange pleasantries or chat about the weather. Others are more formal, like a business or work colleague or a school teacher. Still others are more intimate, involving romance or a platonic friendship.
A good indication of a healthy relationship is the ability to share things about yourself with your partner, such as your fears or dreams. You might talk openly about a problem and find solutions together, or you might simply listen to each other and be a support system. You may even have mutually agreeable activities or hobbies.
In a relationship, you often find yourself making sacrifices for your partner to meet their needs. If this becomes a regular habit, you might start to feel resentful and unsatisfied. This is why it’s important to make your own health a priority and not put all of your eggs in one basket.
Ideally, your significant other should respect your independence and want you to be happy. They should encourage you to maintain your interests and friendships. They should not be jealous of your interactions with other people in your life, or pressure you to spend all your time with them.
If you are dating “the one,” you probably have a deep understanding of each other’s personality, values, and beliefs. Communication with this person is easy and natural. You might even laugh and joke with each other all the time. You might have aligned goals and visions for your future, or a shared plan to reach them.
A true connection in a relationship can light up your world. Your significant other should be someone who makes you smile when you are down, and brings out the best in you. They should be a person you can’t wait to see, and someone who lights up your heart.
All relationships have their struggles, but most problems can be solved with honest communication and mutual respect. You can’t talk about problems if you are simultaneously checking your phone or watching TV, so set aside some time each day to communicate with your partner in a quiet place free of distractions. Also, make sure to use body language and verbal signals when communicating with your partner so they can read your cues. And don’t be afraid to ask for help from a trusted friend or family member if you need it. A strong support system is vital in any relationship.