Even though there aren’t any successful methods of measuring precisely how strong a particular relationship is, there are certainly many ways to improve it and make it even stronger and healthier. Hard work is the key to success, together with many other factors that make a winning combination for a healthy relationship. The truth is that some relationships are simply not meant to last, while others are for a lifetime – and you know what? That’s completely fine. However, if you would like to know if a bond with your partner is strong enough, you’re at the right place. Stay with us and read about five signs of a healthy relationship.
1. You can be yourself no matter what
The first and one of the most reliable signs of being in a healthy relationship is the certainty you can be yourself, no matter what. If you’re in a good relationship, self-censorship is not a thing you have to do in order for him to like you better or think of you in a certain way. On the contrary, if your partner loves you, he’ll love you just as you are – with both your virtues and your flaws. Remember Mark Darcy and Bridget Jones? That’s the thing. So, even if you feel too self-conscious about your actions and behaviour, you’ll be able to deal with that and even laugh at yourself in certain situations. That’s a good sign of developing your relationship and attempting to accept things you were trying to camouflage.
2. Arguments are kept to a minimum
You’ll know that you have a strong bond with your partner once you stop arguing about stupid little things. Of course, fighting is an inevitable part of any kind of relationship – particularly the romantic one, but doing it all the time can turn into a real-life, never-ending nightmare. That’s not good. Such a relationship is highly likely to fall apart sooner or later, simply because constant arguing creates unnecessary psychological pressure. Similarly, not fighting at all can be a problem too, even though it’s at a completely different end of a spectrum. Choosing not to deal with frustration is as toxic as fighting for no reason, so try to find a balance between the two. Remember, it’s okay to have some conflict in a relationship – this means that you’re willing to talk your problems out, which is extremely important in the long run. Besides that, if you notice that your darling is trying to stay away from conflicts you’re trying to start at any cost, you should know that he’s a keeper!
3 .You can tell each other the truth
Honesty is surely one of the most important qualities couples can share, and the fact that you can tell him anything, without him getting mad at you, is priceless. Being honest with your partner is essential in a long and meaningful relationship, in which the two of you share the same goals and head towards them. Telling the truth even though it’s uncomfortable is a sign of a strong bond between the partners, so don’t be hesitant and spit it out as soon as possible. Of course, a tiny white lie here and there is always allowed, simply because some things aren’t worth discussing and fighting over. This is particularly true when it comes to some irrelevant topics that can possibly hurt the feelings of your loved one, such as ‘Oh, honey, I love your shirt!’, even though you find it ugly. That’s his fashion choice, and if he’s happy with it, you should be okay with it, too. So, if you want to know how to be a good girlfriend, try to be as honest as possible and your darling will appreciate that.
Personal improvement is essential, no matter if you’re in a relationship or not. However, it gets even more important when there’s your significant other involved in a process. Moving towards growth and development is what strengthens your bond even more, and it’s always good to know that you’re heading in the same direction. On the other hand, if you feel like your partner is trying to impede your success, this may mean that he’s insecure and afraid you will surpass him. The best way to deal with that is talking with him in order to see whether you’re on the same page or not. If you decide to keep it that way, without discussing problems, your relationship may slip into a grey area with two people who don’t share the same interests and goals.
5. You think about the future with him
Thinking about the future is not what many couples do, particularly in new relationships that still need a lot of work and improvement. If you’re dating someone who’s afraid of commitment, it’s highly likely that you’re never going to discuss some future events together, even the less meaningful ones, such as going to the movies next week. But if you can see a future with him, you’re a lucky one! Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should instantly make plans for a big wedding and come up with names for your kids – we can all agree that it’s a bit too much. Instead, begin with something seemingly less important – perhaps your next trip, introducing him to your parents, or bringing him as a plus-one to your friend’s wedding. Even though these don’t seem that relevant, they are certainly big steps towards a stronger bond between the two of you. Remember – taking one step at a time is completely fine, and that’s exactly the only way to upgrading your relationship gradually.
As you can see, healthy relationship is a true blessing, but the truth is that it require a lot of hard work and involvement. Both of you have to realise that, sometimes, just love is simply not enough for things to work out. Commitment and honesty are crucial, as well as mutual desire for self-development and keeping the arguments to a minimum. If you can show your true colours when you’re with him, you should know that you’re on a good path towards a long-lasting relationship.