In every relationship there are ups and downs, people are bound to get tired at some points and misunderstanding and quarrel set in. And while some people are able to handle their issues and situations maturely, others cannot. A lot of times we wonder what makes other people’s relationship better and more fun than ours. This is because those who make their relationships work also have their trouble times, except that they know how to handle issues when well. People who handle their relationships well tend to enjoy and have great bond with one another, than those who do not. For any kind of relationship to survive, there must be total commitment from both parties involved. Below are ways to know when you are in a good relationship.
Misunderstandings are inevitable
In relationships of whatever kind, misunderstandings are bound to set in. There is no relationship without a fight or quarrel. Misunderstandings are bound to happen and are definitely going to happen. If you take your partner’s words one way, then learn they meant something totally different, don’t punish him or her. Let it go. Bringing it up all the time is only going to bruise the relationship and cause communication problems later. Sometimes what you say or do will be taken the wrong way, and you’ll get frustrated that your partner doesn’t understand. Take a step back and realize it’s not a big deal. Misunderstandings only become problems if you let them grow bigger and mean more in the scope of your relationship. Be understanding and forgive misunderstandings.
Trust
Trust is one thing that is difficult to find in relationships these days. You have to trust your partner. Why would you share your life with someone when you think they’re doing something wrong every time you turn your back? If you don’t trust your partner to be faithful, honest, caring or anything else, then you’re not in a good relationship. The best relationships begin with a deep trust, and even if problems come up (which they will), the trust is strong enough to keep you together.
Encourage growth and change in your relationship
In a good relationship, both partners are encouraged to grow and change. You have one life to live; therefore, you should explore it to the fullest. If you want to try something new or go back to something old, you should find support in your relationship. And you should give this support in return. Encourage your partner to explore hobbies and interests and meet new people. If you want your partner to stay the same, you’re going to have a very boring life together.
Let yourselves miss each other
You’re in love, so you want to be together all the time! It’s so fun to cuddle all night and be together all day, but when will you have time to experience different things? When you go to separate work places or schools, you’re experiencing things that will give you something to talk about later. When you go out with your friends and your partner spends time with theirs, then you’re having time and space to yourself; then you’ll come back to each other refreshed. You have a chance to miss each other, and it helps you to really appreciate the value of your relationship. Missing someone is great because getting to see the person after a period will give you some excitement and happiness; it will help cement your relationship. This is applicable to other kinds of relationships.
Admit your weaknesses
People should not expect you to be a superhero, and hopefully you don’t expect that of them! We’re all humans; we all have flaws. It’s OK to let these show. In fact, to have a stable, serious relationship, you need to let your weaknesses be known. Your partner will be more sensitive to things that bother you, and can help build you up in areas where you need some help.
Sometimes you can only accept things, not fix them
We all have baggage. You have some. And so does your partner. Can you go back and erase all of this? Nope! You’re stuck with it, and have to learn to deal with it. Some things are easier to get over than others, but the reality is that sometimes, you can’t fix things. You can’t make problems go away. You have to accept it and get over it and move on, or else your relationship will crumble.
Forgive quickly and truly
Whenever you have a fight, don’t worry about who wins or who loses. Learn from the fight; from what was said as much as from how it was resolved. Once you learn from a fight, you can apply that lesson to your relationship to avoid trouble later. Forgive your partner! Forgive yourself. The fight is over, you’re past it, now let it go. Never hold anything against your partner or anybody, because the resentment will build until you don’t want to be with them.
Avoid unrealistic expectations
Don’t expect people to read your mind, or your partner to bring you breakfast in bed, or to offer to wash the dishes. It’s not going to happen. You can’t expect your dreams from anyone; or expect anyone to be an angel; to read your mind. You have to make your desires known. If you want things done, communicate! Make sure your partner knows what you expect from the relationship, as well as your opinions on a wide variety of issues. This will help them act considerate towards you, but don’t expect too much!
Show your feelings
One of the worst things you can do in a relationship is play games. Don’t tease your partner; don’t “reward” good deeds with love and affection. You have to make sure your partner always feels loved. You can be happy with them or be mad at them, it doesn’t matter; they just need to feel loved. They need to know your feelings in the moment as well, don’t get me wrong. But make sure you’re showing your feelings in a way they won’t be misunderstood.
