A relationship is a close emotional or social connection between two people. It can encompass a variety of different types of human interactions, including romantic relationships, family relationships, friendships, and acquaintanceships. A meaningful relationship makes us feel loved and supported, like someone cares about us.
In healthy relationships, each person gives and receives equal amounts of affection and energy. This balance can be hard to achieve in long-term or monogamous relationships, but it is important for couples to know each other well enough to understand what their partner needs. For example, one person may want to spend a lot of time together and another might prefer to show love through acts of service.
People in healthy relationships also respect each other’s individuality and autonomy. They trust each other, which means that they don’t feel jealous when their significant other spends time with friends or family members. They are open about their feelings and are able to express themselves without judgment.
In addition to providing support and affection, people in meaningful relationships offer guidance and reassurance. For instance, they help each other make decisions. They also rebuke each other when necessary and encourage positive behaviors. They also serve as a sounding board and a source of humor, and they provide honest feedback. A good relationship can also relieve stress by serving as a buffer when life gets hectic. For instance, they can cheer each other up after a bad day by taking a long walk or sharing a laugh.