12 Signs of a Healthy Relationship

Sometimes it can be rather difficult to tell if your relationship is a good one. In today's world, with an overwhelming amount of choice and bad possibilities, it can be downright terrifying to stay in a long term relationship. You can see other people and think that maybe they have it better and perhaps you’re doing something wrong. But if your relationship has these twelve signs, then you really shouldn’t worry, because it’s probably a healthy one.

1. You communicate.

If you can talk to your partner about anything without hesitation or fear of backlash, then you are already on your way to being in a healthy relationship. Good communication techniques can create a safe environment where you can discuss problems and solve them. Being able to be open about things can relieve stress on a relationship and make loving your partner much easier.

2. You argue.

Not in a full-on screaming match sort of way, but arguing can help a relationship. Otherwise couples might bottle up their feelings and let them fester into resentment. Being able to communicate openly and argue effectively can help release these tensions. Listen to your partner in an argument and try to see where they are coming from, and don’t be afraid to apologize when you are wrong.

3. Privacy

You know when to disclose information about your relationship to others. It’s one thing to talk to close family and friends about details of your relationship when you need a bit of help, but posting about your problems on social media can be passive aggressive and can damage the trust built between you and your partner. Relationships need a sense of privacy to feel safe, and everyone involved should respect that.

4. You don’t hold grudges.

The more you get to know your partner, the more little things you’ll notice that annoy you. It’s normal to get upset with them as time goes on, and perhaps say things that shouldn’t be said. Holding onto the anger after a sincere apology can damage your relationship though. Be sure to talk it out when you’re upset, and learn to let go so that you can move on.

5. You have realistic expectations.

Of course we all want a partner who will take us to the stars, but is that really possible? Your partner is only human after all, and expecting too much of them can put a strain on both of you. Relationships are about balance, one person shouldn’t be doing all the work. If you feel like too much is expected of you, then talk to your partner. Everyone needs a break when things get rough. We can’t all be superheroes all the time.

6. You take time for yourself.

Being in a relationship means spending a lot of time with another person. But that doesn’t mean you stop existing as your own person. Don’t forget that you do need time away from your partner on occasion to remember why you like having them around so much, and sometimes even to just give you something new to talk about.

7. You trust each other.

When your partner leaves you shouldn’t be worrying about what they’re doing. You shouldn’t be going through their texts and searching for reasons to be upset. Your partner should trust you enough to give you space, and you should do the same for them. Constant checking in and trust issues can put strain on a relationship.

8. You spend time together.

As healthy as it is to spend time apart, you should enjoy spending time together as well. Whether it’s hiking or doing puzzles, or even being in the same room while doing your own thing, spending time with each other helps you get to know each other, and makes it easier to relax and communicate. Don’t just spend time when you can, make the time for your partner. Whether it’s dinner dates or cuddling on the couch, it can make all the difference.

9. You’re friends.

You can joke and laugh and cry and complain to each other. Your partner should be your best friend as well as a romantic interest. This doesn’t mean that your partner should be your only friend, but they shouldn’t be a stranger or an enemy. They should be someone that you feel absolutely comfortable with.

10. You make decisions together.

Big decisions shouldn’t be about power, they should be a partnership that both of you agree on. You and your partner should both be willing to compromise at times, but you shouldn’t be feeling like you constantly have to compromise. Your partner should be working with you, not guilting you into constantly following their lead.

11. You get intimate.

Yes, sex can be important to some relationships, but that’s not the only form of intimacy. Learn the little things about your partner, be affectionate, give gifts. Show them you care with little romances and not just grand gestures. Don’t be afraid to be close with your partner, and let them know that they can be intimate with you too.

12. You make each other better.

You can grow from each other and not worry about them damaging you. This doesn’t mean fixing a person, it means loving them for who they are. Don’t say you love them despite their damage, love them with their damage and watch them begin to love their damage too. Be with someone who makes you feel like you can bloom.