Human relationships are never perfect. There are always deficiencies that appear now and then. What sets apart a healthy relationship from an unhealthy one is how you deal with such issues. It's about the systems you put in place to ensure a healthy dynamic between you and your partner.
North Carolina based relationship coach Jenifer Howell states that “A great relationship is a safe place for both people to love, honor, and respect one another.” Here are some indicators of a healthy relationship with a well-nurtured safe space.
1. Communication is a priority
A healthy relationship prioritizes communication. Yes, it’s the little everyday things that you talk about like how work was, what movie you’d like to watch together, or who to visit this weekend. But it’s also about how you deal with the more significant issues.
Partners never bottle up a problem that needs sorting for longer than necessary. It’s about coming to the table with the intent to understand each other better, solve, and heal.
2. Honesty and trust are nurtured
Healthy relationships focus on maintaining honesty and building and nurturing trust with your partner. It’s what keeps a relationship strong.
Partners who are honest and trust one another can give each other healthy space. They know that their significant other is on the same page when it comes to the essentials of their relationship and will keep the boat afloat to the best of their ability. It’s the kind of honesty that’s not intent on hurting but for the sake of building a relationship.
3. Mutual respect is foundational
Respect in a relationship ties in with the healthy understanding that you and your partner are equals. When you respect your significant other, you value their opinions, beliefs, and decisions on whether they align with yours. It allows room for healthy conflicts and the sustenance of each partner’s individuality. Maintaining a balance in power relations is key to having a stable and mature relationship.
4. The partners know each other’s love language
Knowing each other’s love language is the fuel that keeps a healthy relationship going. It’s how intimacy between partners is fostered. A love language could be anything from physical touch to writing little love notes, going on a romantic trip, sharing duties, or getting each other presents. Whatever it is, knowing what form your partner likes receiving love will show that you care for them
5. You are each other’s cheerleader
Having the one you love to support your dreams and goals is a sure sign of a healthy relationship. It shows that your partner values and shares your enthusiasm regarding the things you want in life.
A person’s opinion of your vision does not increase or decrease its value. But encouragement can push you towards whatever you want to achieve more effectively. So, having an encouraging partner is ideal.
3. You feel secure
A healthy relationship provides a deep feeling of security. With the right partner, you should feel comfortable just being yourself. It ties in with the importance of honesty and authenticity and being able to communicate freely with your partner.
In a secure relationship, you aren’t afraid of unwittingly displeasing your partner or of them walking out because you said something wrong. You may be momentarily upset but know that you can talk it out eventually.
Conclusion
We read the world around us through signs. It’s how we understand the nature of things. We hope a few of the signs mentioned here on healthy relationships resonate with you. Do look that these signs are present in your relationship to make sure you’re in a healthy one.
