Communication is a key part to building a healthy relationship. Communication means that you are able to share things about yourself and your feelings. It also means that you listen to what the other person shares. In doing so, you learn whether you both want and expect the same things–being on the same page is very important. The following tips can help you create and maintain a healthy relationship:
Speak Up. In a healthy relationship, if something is bothering you, it’s best to talk about it instead of holding it in. Stay calm and talk about how you feel without attacking or blaming.
Respect Your Partner. Your partner’s wishes and feelings have value. Let your significant other know you are making an effort to keep their ideas in mind. Mutual respect is essential in maintaining healthy relationships.
Compromise. Disagreements are a natural part of healthy relationships, but it’s important that you find a way to compromise if you disagree on something. Try to solve conflict in a fair and rational way. In a healthy relationship, negotiation and compromise are always present.
Be Supportive. Offer reassurance and encouragement to your partner. Also, let your partner know when you need their support. Healthy relationships are about building each other up, not putting each other down.
Respect Each Other’s Privacy. Just because you’re in a relationship, doesn’t mean you have to share everything and constantly be together. Healthy relationships require space.
Originally Published: https://voicesofcourage.byu.edu/content/healthy-relationships
