In the beginning of a new relationship, it seems like all you need is love. However, a healthy relationship requires a lot more. If your relationship lacks trust, support, communication, and emotional maturity, it may become toxic and unhealthy sooner or later. Put simply, a healthy relationship adapts and changes over time. If you’re unsure whether or not you’re in a fulfilling relationship, look for signs of a healthy relationship.
Health Shots spoke to Devina Kaur, a motivational speaker, radio host, and producer, about the signs and symptoms that show you’re in a fulfilling relationship.
“A healthy relationship demands time, effort, respect, and love from both partners,“ says Kaur.
The first step towards aiming for a healthy and fulfilling relationship is to know yourself. Along with that, you have to make more efforts toward knowing your partner’s needs and wants. According to Kaur, “Self-knowledge will not only help you understand your partner better, but in return, you will receive the same efforts from your partner.” So if you’re trying and making efforts to understand your partner, you’re keeping your relationship on track.
A healthy relationship is built on healthy communication. You will feel safe and free to express your wants, needs, and boundaries while also listening to the other person. Lack of communication can wreak havoc on your relationship, causing problems with relational growth and intimacy. In fact, it is the primary cause of toxic, unhealthy relationships.
Every couple fights. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to resolve every issue because it is okay to disagree on a few issues. Acceptance is what makes the relationship healthy. Acceptance that you and your partner aren’t on the same page, but you’re still supporting and understanding, and you’re more focused on finding a solution. “Being truthful about your opinions, preferences, and needs is essential in a healthy romantic relationship,” Kaur adds. So if that’s the case with you, your relationship is healthy.
Being a couple means having a partner to rely on, as you would rely on a best friend. “You should understand that you are a team and that each of your opinions matter when making big life decisions or even the smallest of decisions,” says Kaur. So, if you respect each other’s opinions and collaborate as a team, you’re on your way to a healthier relationship.
Apart from healthy communication, trust is the hallmark of a healthy relationship. It requires mutual self-disclosure by sharing personal information. Yes, in a successful relationship, both partners trust each other and can say anything without fear of being judged. Neither is afraid to bring up issues, whether they are related to the relationship or not.
When you have respect for yourself, you are able to teach others how to respect you. In a healthy relationship, each partner needs to respect each other’s opinions and boundaries, and in return, you should get the same. If you feel that your dignity and respect have been compromised, communicate with your partner. And if there’s mutual respect, things are going great! Remember that while respect may appear to be obvious, it necessitates a great deal of understanding.
Successful relationships make time for a couple’s needs as well for individual needs. Spend time alone in order to re-energize and focus on your personal development and growth while also growing in your relationship. Take time apart from your relationship to pursue any hobby such as charity work or a sport.
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