If you’re looking for love, you don’t just want to be in a relationship. You want to be in a healthy one. But what exactly does a healthy relationship look like?
Every relationship is different, but there are some key things all healthy relationships have in common.
Ultimately, a healthy relationship is one where your individual wants, needs, and values sync up with your partner’s. They don’t need to be exactly the same. No two people are alike in every way. But they should complement each other.
# You trust each other
If you’re wondering, what does a healthy relationship look like? Start with trust. When you have it, you feel invincible, like you can do anything with your partner. But without it, it’s impossible to grow together.
In a serious relationship, trust means being honest, being vulnerable, and doing what you say you’re going to do. Having trust issues in a relationship doesn’t mean you’re doomed to break up, but it does mean you need to work to resolve them.
# You communicate wellAsk any relationship expert or couples therapist what a couple needs to succeed and they’ll say open, honest communication. It’s the key to a thriving relationship.
In a healthy relationship, both you and your partner need to be able to explain your wants, needs, and feelings—plus hear, respect, and accommodate each other’s wants, needs, and feelings.
# Know how to fight fairlyIt sounds strange, but fighting is a good thing, as long as you’re doing it fairly.
It helps you address problems head-on and find better ways to do things. And fighting fairly means even though you might take opposing stances on a topic, you’re still on the same side—the side of wanting to make your relationship work.
# You set healthy boundariesThose asking what does a healthy relationship look like?, should get familiar with setting healthy boundaries.
Setting boundaries with your partner might sound like a sign of trouble, but there’s nothing negative or worrisome about it. It’s simply a way of assuring that your needs are met in a relationship. So don’t feel guilty for having them!
# You still maintain a strong sense of self
We all know somebody who changes their hobbies, interests, and personality to match the person they’re dating. And more often than not, it isn’t the best idea.
While it’s natural to adopt some of your partner’s favorite things and want to spend a lot of time with them, it’s still important to have a strong sense of self.