As I approach my late twenties, I have had my fair share of time in the dating realm. I have been with people that showed me characteristics that I knew I didn’t want in a relationship and I have been with people that gave me glances of what I do want. I have been on the receiving end of a toxic relationship. I have also been a toxic person in a relationship. All of these experiences compiled and the growth that I have gone through throughout the years has created how I conduct myself in my current relationship. Although my relationship isn’t perfect, I don’t know if relationships ever can be, I think we’ve just about nailed how we conduct ourselves to have a healthy and happy romantic relationship together.
Although I am mostly talking about my romantic relationship, these tips can be applied to any relationship you are trying to grow stronger, whether that be a friendship, a relationship with your siblings or anything other kind of relationship. So here are some secrets to have a healthy and happy relationship! Make sure to read to the end because I think the last one could be the most important!
1. Communication Is Key
They really aint lyin when they say communication is key. As someone who used to shut down, build walls, and run instead of communicating, I can confidently say how much better your relationships get when you learn how to communicate. Communication is the cornerstone of any relationship. It’s how you express your thoughts, feelings, needs, desires, and how you foster a deeper understanding of each others perspectives. Prioritize open, honest, and respectful conversation in your relationship and see how navigating challenges become more effective and how much more you can strengthen a bond with your partner. Communication is not just about doing all the talking, it’s also about intentionally listening to your partner with an open mind and open heart as well. This one thing has created such a strong foundation in my relationship.
2. Quality Time Together
Creating time in your life to spend some quality time together is so important in having a happy and healthy relationship. Spending quality time together grows your connection and bond, gives you the opportunity to experience things together and always stay learning about each other. Creating memories you cherish, building trust, and reinforcing your commitment to each other is a sure way to keep keep your relationship happy and healthy.
3. Respect Each Others Individuality
Being able to respect the unique traits, perspectives, and preferences each individual brings to the table sets up such a strong foundation for a happy and healthy relationship. At the end of the day, we all just want to be loved for our authentic selves. We want to be loved for our quirks, culture, talents, and interests. So supporting your partner in their individuality with love and respect is paramount.
4. Effective Conflict Resolution
No relationship can be 100% perfect because no two people are the exact same. There will be differences, different ways of doing things, and sometimes y’all will butt heads. But it’s about how you tackle these situations that will speak volumes in your relationship. I feel like the most effective conflict resolution is communication so this kind of ties into number 1. COMMUNICATION. It’s everything when you’re trying to hash out some differences. So have an open mind, realize that your way is just a way, not necessarily the right way, and have patience with each other. Give yourselves and your partners grace in these situations.
5. Shared Values and Goals
I think that having a similar vision as far as values and goals go can be a very connecting experience to have with your partner. Although you don’t need to share every interest, it elevates the relationship to be on the same page with your values and goals. Making sure you’re both headed in the same direction, and can uplift each other in that process can be so empowering for your and for your partner. Sharing the similar values and goals ensures that you can keep each other on track and when y’all need redirection or guidance.
6. Continuous Growth and Adaptation
Going into your relationship with an open mind for growth and adaptation is sooooooo essential in keeping a happy and healthy relationship. Like I said above about conflict resolution; there will be disagreements and moments when you don’t see eye to eye in a relationship, so being able to take in another perspective and adapt to certain things can definitely make your relationship more happy and healthy. When both parties feel understood, validated, and you’re making a genuine effort to come to some kind of middle ground with your significant other, it shows that you love them and are willing to put in some work yourself, grow in certain areas, and adapt when needed and that can speak volumes to your partner and make them feel so appreciated. And vice versa!
7. Express Affection And Appreciation
I don’t know about you but I never, and I mean NEVER, get tired of hearing why my partner loves me. Expressing your affection is like communicating the fact that yes, I’m into you! Yes, I want to make this work for the long haul! There is nothing more comforting in a relationship than to hear that validation from your partner that they are still into you, they love you unconditionally, and they are proud of you and whatever you are trying to achieve in life. Tell your loved one that you appreciate them, tell them that they look like a snack. Yes ladies, men love compliments too. Men love to be reassured as well. Always be making your partner feel loved and appreciated by expressing your affection. I know that physical affection isn’t everybody’s love language, and if that’s the case, I urge you to show affection with words of affirmation to your loved one and see how much happier and healthier your relationship can get when both sides of the equation are getting validated and nurtured through this powerful expression. I’m telling you, people love love love to hear why you love them. It never gets old. And this shouldn’t be like a once a month occasion. Make sure to validate your partner daily. It is truly amazing what happens when you foster love and appreciation in your relationship.
So there you have it, my friends! 7 ways to foster a happier and healthier relationship. These tips don’t just apply to your significant other, but any relationship that you’re trying to grow. Whether that be your significant other, a friendship, a relationship with your siblings, or any other type of relationship. These tips are surely a great guidance map growing a happy, healthy, and strong relationship of any sort.
Of course I’m not perfect and by all means I’m not a relationship expert. I am just a human being continuing to learn how to be the best partner, step-mother, sister, daughter, and friend. But these tips are what I have noticed are most important when building relationships that are strong and that will last a lifetime. Practicing these in my own life has strengthened my bonds and continues to make them stronger every day. I hope this can help. As always, stay kind my friends, k byeeeee. 🙂
