Most people don’t deliberately enter a relationship that they know won’t last. However, they do inadvertently end up in a relationship that has the wrong ingredients for a lasting relationship. Once you understand what makes a relationship work, you can avoid those things that would hinder a relationship. Choosing a good mate requires first recognizing the good qualities for a long-term relationship.
Commitment
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Commitment in relationships means that each person pledges or obligates themselves to the other. The degree of commitment plays a role in the quality of that relationship. Each partner must invest the effort needed to develop a healthy, long-term relationship. The deep emotions that bring two people together are often not enough to sustain the relationship. It will only last if the couple has enough commitment to remain loyal in times of difficulty.
Emotional Stability
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An emotionally stable person demonstrates maturity and responsibility. He knows how to handle volatile emotions like anger. He is emotionally available. He is responsible with money and has a steady job. He has high self-esteem and a generally positive outlook on life. Emotionally stable couples value each other’s differences, while trying to find common ground.
- Compromise
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A big part of maintaining a successful long-term relationship is the ability to compromise. No one can win all the time. Each person must learn to give in a little and not just seek only his or her own interests. Compromise doesn’t mean giving up your own identity or pushing aside your values. It means that each party occasionally gives up something to meet the other person’s needs.
Trust and Honesty
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Once trust has been broken in a relationship, it can be very difficult to restore. Couples should be able always to trust each other in any situation. Trust and honesty often go together. It is impossible to trust someone when you know they are not honest with you, or you know they are hiding important things from you.
