A Healthy Relationship - What Does it Really Mean?

Posted by Noreen Ruth, June 30th, 2009

June30

healthy-relationships A ‘healthy relationship’ – what does one look like? Can you ever hope to have one? If you consider the media portrayal of relationships – ridiculously happy or drama filled and miserable, you may begin to wonder. But the truth of having a healthy relationship lies somewhere in the middle. You’ll never find a couple in complete misery or utter happiness all the time.

By observing the relationships of our family and friends, we may come to the conclusion that having a healthy relationship is a hopeless case of fantasy because of the dysfunction we see. But do we have false expectations? Maybe these relationships aren’t dysfunctional at all.

By Outward Appearances
Outward appearances only tell a small part of a relationship story and only the part that a couple wants others to see, but they’re the first sign of a healthy partnership. We all know the saying ‘looks can be deceiving’ but there is nothing deceptive about the outward appearances of a healthy relationship. A healthy relationship can be observed in the following ways:

They show a genuine interest in each other and truly like each other

They share most of the same basic morals, values, beliefs, religion and politics

They trust and appreciate each other, are authentic, genuine and caring

They put each other as their top priority and make their partner feel special

A couple who exhibits a sense of joy and calm when they’re together

Beyond Outward Appearance
Beyond outward appearances, a healthy relationship is intimate and private. You may never know whether a couple shares in the attributes listed below, but outward appearances will reflect them back in small ways.

They handle their differences with care, avoiding unhealthy conflict and arguments

Their wants, needs, feelings and emotions are freely expressed and accepted without shame or guilt

They share a mutual desire to protect the relationship flourish

Responsibilities are a balance between their own needs and
the needs of their partner

They know how to compromise but never at the expense of dignity

Partners trust each other to follow through on promises

They enjoy a mutually satisfying sex life

They take the time to have fun and relax with each other

Compatibility
Compatibility is a trait that we hear bantered about when speaking about relationships. The concept is much deeper than likes and dislikes. It encompasses the intellect and spirituality, ethics and a common bond based on love that will endure during difficult and happy times. It also includes the willingness to accept differences in hobbies, interests and even friends.

Emotional Health
All healthy relationships require emotional and psychological health. Laughing, crying and sharing all the aspects of human emotions with our partner will determine the longevity and satisfaction of that relationship. Enjoying time together is essential for any good relationship. A couple who enjoys each other’s company will also enjoy socializing with other couples.

So, yes, you can have a satisfying, healthy relationship. But it doesn’t just happen, it takes work. Love at first sight only becomes a long-term, loving relationship with commitment and time. If you love someone’s company, want to talk and share everything with them, feel sexual passion, consider them your best friend and are willing to nurture your relationship, you are on your way to a healthy relationship.