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Communication
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Communication is one of the biggest rules for having a healthy relationship. A relationship is a partnership, and it’s important to be able to both talk and listen to your partner. Talk about your feelings, goals and needs, and ask your partner about his or her feelings, goals and needs. Find a time to talk to each other every day about how your day went. If you get into a disagreement, communicate your feelings and respect the opinion of the other person, which ties into the next rule.
Mutual Respect
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The word “mutual” is key. In order to get respect in a relationship, you have to give respect in return. Respect the values and quirks that your partner has, and talk about things that bother you. Many of us lead busy lives, so it’s important to respect the time requirements of someone’s job, activities or need to tend to children. Again, communication is important and goes hand-in-hand with respect as well. Respect each other’s individuality and unique differences as well.
Trust and Honesty
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A relationship is built on mutual trust. If you are with someone you do not trust, then this is not a healthy relationship. You should be able to trust your partner and they should be able to trust you. Be faithful, honest and open about your past and your mistakes, and ask for forgiveness when you break your partner’s trust.
Spend Time Apart
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It’s equally important to give each other space so you both have some alone time. Some couples spend every waking hour together, and this can lead to frustrations when you want to be alone with your thoughts. Each of us needs some time to spend reflecting and doing things by ourselves and with other friends. Plan a girls or guys night out and then talk about your night with your partner the next day.
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