12 Signs of a Healthy Relationship

Healthy does not always mean being happy! Sometimes in healthy relationships there are extremely uncomfortable situations. But those uncomfortable situations contribute to the overall health of the relationships and ultimately make it happier and more successful in the long run.

In a healthy relationship:

1.You support each other.

In healthy relationships you support each other and want the other person to succeed, grow, and change for the better. You are in your person’s corner for better or worse! Healthy relationships forster growth even if that means changes as you both evolve. Instead of ignoring dreams and goals out of fear of change, you lean into them and grow together. 

2. You both give 100% and are equally committed to the relationship.

In healthy relationships you and your partner give 100% and are equally committed to the relationship. You can build trust by showing your partner with your actions that you are committed to building a stable, loving, respectful relationship. At times, your partner's full commitment may be less than normal (and vice versa) so with both parties being in 100% you protect the structure of your relationship. Commitment grows with time and will not happen overnight but it is important for the longevity of a healthy relationship.

3. You communicate well.

In healthy relationships you communicate well. Communication is a foundational element to healthy relationships because out of it many more aspects can grow. See parts 7 and 9 for specific reasons that communication is valuable. Communication is the way in which relationships are built. It fosters happier relationships and increases connection. 

4. You trust each other knowing that the other person has integrity.

In healthy relationships you trust each other knowing that the other person has integrity and respect. Trust is a foundational element to healthy relationships. And many more aspects can grow out of trust such as: assuming generously, conflict resolution, communication, physical and emotional safety, and boundary work. Without trust it is impossible to grow a healthy, mature relationship and integrity is a big influence in building trust. Without integrity, or being on the same page about values and morality, trust will not flourish. 

5. You respect each other and lead with kindness and understanding. 

In healthy relationships you respect each other and lead with kindness and understanding. Even in the face of conflict, hard situations, and/or difficult changes, you are approached with gentle kindness, love, and curiosity. You assume generously of your partner and do not rush to worst 

case scenarios or your biggest fears. 

6. You can disagree.

In healthy relationships you can disagree. Even at times where a compromise is not met, you can disagree knowing that the other person respects you even if you do not see eye to eye. You can embrace conflict in your relationship without tearing each other down. 

7. You can work together to come to a compromise where both people feel respected.

In healthy relationships you can work together to come to a compromise where both people feel respected. When there are disagreements you and your partner can productively work together to make sure that a pleasing compromise is achieved where both parties feel heard and valued. 

8. You feel physically safe with your partner.

In healthy relationships you feel physically safe with your partner. You feel comfortable sleeping around them and know that they will respect your unconscious body. You know that your partner will not hit or physically hurt you in any way intentionally. 

9. You can express your feelings, opinions, and concerns.

In healthy relationships you can express your feelings, opinions, and concerns. You are not always on edge, worried that if you bring something up your partner will be angry, ignore you, or hold it against you. Your feelings are validated, opinions weighed, and concerns are heard.

10. Your privacy and space are respected.

In healthy relationships your privacy and space are respected. Personal autonomy is valued and you can function as a whole person independently from your partner. You encourage each other to spend time with other people, do hobbies, and have alone time. In healthy relationships, you learn from the wisdom of others to make your relationships even better. 

11. You enjoy being together and are filled up when spending time with the other person. 

In healthy relationships you enjoy being together and are filled up when spending time with the other person. Being with your person makes you feel more like you and spending time with them makes you feel happier and less stressed. Healthy relationships are safe spaces out of the sometimes scary world and the stress of life. 

12. You can put up boundaries. 

In healthy relationships you can put boundaries in places and can say no when a line is crossed. Consent is a vital aspect at every step of the way. If you do not feel comfortable with physical intimacy or other situations, you can speak up knowing that your concerns will be heard and validated. After the boundary is crossed and resolved, you know that the situation that made you uncomfortable will not happen again. 

Healthy relationships involve work by both people in the relationship and exist on a continuum. Sometimes, your relationship may struggle but by working together, pre-determining your values, and truly listening to each other you will make it through.