Whether you’re dating someone, married, or part of a long-term committed relationship, the right partner can give you a powerful boost in your life. They can keep you focused on your goals, give you a reason to work harder, and provide an incredible support network.
A healthy relationship requires constant communication and care. You need to respect and appreciate each other, and you need to make time for each other’s hobbies, interests, and friends. You should also understand each other’s “love languages”—the ways you like to be shown affection, such as acts of service or quality time.
Relationships also require trust. It’s important that you trust your partner and that they trust you to have outside relationships (like friends, family, and coworkers). You should also avoid jealousy or feelings of insecurity when it comes to spending time with other people. If you find yourself feeling jealous, you may need to re-assess your relationship.
It’s also important to remember that relationships should make you happy, not just at the beginning but throughout your entire relationship. Commitment should come naturally at your own pace—don’t try to force it because you’re scared of being alone.
A healthy relationship can add years to your life, so it’s worth working on! It will take time and effort, but it should be work that you want to do. If you find yourself struggling, don’t give up—reach out for help and be patient with yourself. Having the right partner will inspire you to push yourself even further, because you have a supportive safety net behind you.