Relationships are the connections that hold us up and support us through life’s ups and downs. They also provide us with meaning and purpose.
There are many different types of relationships: family, friendships, acquaintances, and romantic relationships, to name a few. Regardless of what type of relationship you’re in, each one has the potential to be either positive or negative for your health and wellbeing.
Negative Relationships
A negative relationship may include a person who doesn’t make you feel loved or respected, or that you aren’t enough for them. It may be a toxic friend, a codependent partner, or an unhealthy family member. Negative relationships can damage your self-esteem, make you feel unworthy, and leave you feeling a lack of fulfillment in your life.
Positive Relationships
A healthy relationship is a place where you can become a better version of yourself. It is a place where you can practice learning how to be a better listener and learn how to navigate conflict in a respectful way. Whether you’re working on your communication skills or learning how to handle stress, being in a relationship can help you improve in these areas.
Having a good, supportive partner can also increase your confidence and sense of self-worth, which can lead to more risks in your life. When you’re with someone who supports you through challenges, it can give you the courage to chase after your dreams. This support can also make you more resilient, helping you bounce back from setbacks and stay focused on your goals.
In a loving and fulfilling romantic relationship, there’s no day that goes by without your partner saying something kind to you or making you smile. A romantic relationship should also be physically intimate. It should be a place where you can share tender touches, kiss each other affectionately, and have fun exploring your bodies together. It should be a place that makes your heart sing and gives you butterflies.
Whether you’re in a monogamous relationship, an open relationship, or a civil union, your partner should be someone that you can trust to care for you and who you can count on. They should consistently make time for you and remember important details about your life. They should also be able to respect your individual boundaries and be mindful of your mental wellness. The best partners are those that can balance your needs with their own, making you a happy and healthy couple. If you can’t do this, negativity will brew and your relationship could slowly drift apart. If this is happening to you, it’s always worth considering therapy for couples. A therapist can teach you strategies that will enable you to be in a loving and mutually beneficial relationship for the long term.