Healthy relationships look different from couple to couple. There’s no one-size-fits-all equation for a loving, committed, and fair partnership – but there are common desirable basics like trust, communication and respect. Here, we will review seven signs you’re in a healthy relationship. These examples should shine some light on your situation and tell you if you’re on the right path or should get out, now. Keep reading to find out where you stand.
Responsibility for Your Actions
Effective communication can save you from hurting your partner’s feelings – and vice-versa. But if you make a mistake, the best thing you can do is take responsibility for your actions. Don’t get defensive and claim it’s not your fault. Own up, acknowledge what you did wrong, and do better next time. If both of you can accept responsibility for your actions, it’s a sign you are in a healthy relationship.
Interdependency
Healthy partners are not dependent on one another for happiness. Instead, they’re interdependent, meaning you can fully support and be there for one another while maintaining your identities. You have friends and connections outside your relationship and can pursue interests and hobbies without your significant other.
Mutual Respect
Mutual respect is one of the most important aspects of a healthy relationship. That means no belittling or putting each other down. There are many ways couples can show respect for one another. Some of those include:
- Lending a listening ear to vent
- Not procrastinating when your partner asks for a favor
- Building one another up
- Forgiving mistakes
- Participating in things that interest your partner
- Allowing individuality
- Supporting passions
- Showing appreciation and gratitude
- Having empathy
No Judgment
Judgment is the last thing you want in a relationship. It can lead to built-up resentment, ultimately leading to relationship demise. So, if you can be open and honest with your partner with zero judgment, it’s a sign your relationship is healthy.
Love Languages
You’ve heard it before, and it’s back again! There are five love languages, which include words of affirmation, quality time, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Each person’s love language is different, and learning your partner’s is key. If you’re in a healthy relationship, you can pinpoint what your significant other wants.
Playfulness
Laughing and joking together is a sign of a healthy relationship. You should be able to have fun. That doesn’t mean challenges and stress won’t pop in from time to time, but if you can find humor or joy in most situations, your relationship will be stronger for it.
Forgiveness
Everyone messes up from time to time! It’s what you do with the mistake that matters. If you’re in a healthy relationship, you’ll know when forgiveness is necessary. That means both of you, not just one!