Relationships are a vital part of one’s life, as they help make up the social support network that is so important for physical and mental well-being. They can be either positive or negative and can be romantic, platonic or family based. Relationships can also be both in-person or virtual and may be a mix of the different types.
In a relationship, there is a mutual trust and reliance on one another that stems from an emotional connection. It is the love, empathy, and respect for each other that builds the foundation of the relationship. If the relationship is not rooted in these elements, it is likely that it will not last very long.
A balanced relationship consists of healthy amounts of giving and taking. It involves the ability to listen and communicate without judgement, including communication on sex and intimacy for people in romantic relationships, and it requires the willingness to work as a team instead of as two self-serving individuals.
In addition to establishing emotional connections, the other components of a relationship are trust, reassurance, and respect. The reassurance and trust are a result of being able to depend on your partner to be there for you emotionally when you need them and to respect your boundaries, even if it means not allowing them to touch you in certain ways. Respect is a key component of a relationship and it comes from being able to appreciate your partner for who they are, including their quirks and strengths, and knowing that you both will be happy no matter what challenges come up.
The need for human connection appears to be innate, and the formation of stable relationships is thought to begin in infancy. It is believed that early experiences with caregivers establish deeply ingrained patterns of relating to others. The satisfaction of being in a healthy relationship can lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. If your partner or friends encourage you to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, not smoke, and get enough sleep, you are more likely to follow their lead and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Ultimately, a relationship is a feeling of happiness when you are with the person who makes your heart race and the butterflies fly. The joy of spending time with someone you care about and who knows you better than anyone else is what makes a relationship worth cherishing. So, if you have a special someone who lifts your spirits, understands you when no one else can, and who loves you for all that you are, then you are in the right place and you deserve nothing less than a great life with them by your side.