Achieving a sentimental, emotional and physical connection with someone feels great and is something that many of us long for. But if we talk about building a healthy relationship as a couple, this goes far beyond that connection and demands will and daily work on the part of both people involved. 

It is not just about sharing time and activities that you both enjoy. Building a healthy bond  is about sharing and enjoying quality time, feeling comfortable and safe as a couple, respecting each other’s limits, time, and differences. 

Seven signs that indicate that you are in a healthy relationship

Some signs happening in your daily life can indicate whether you are in a healthy or abusive relationship. Identify those that best define your relationship.  

• You can talk about any topic or problem. 
• You feel comfortable and safe with your partner. 
• Your self-esteem does not depend on your partner. 
• Both prioritize time together, but know that personal space is necessary. 
• You both respect your partner’s boundaries.
• You both support and care for each other. 
• You both address your differences honestly and respectfully.

It is not about never having disagreements in a healthy relationship, what really matters is how both people deal with situations and support each other in various circumstances.

Key points for a healthy relationship 

Some aspects are essential for a couple’s relationship to be built in the framework of love, respect for each other, mutual interest, and enjoyment of time together. Identify the most important aspects to build and maintain a healthy relationship. 

Self-love: Loving oneself is essential to loving someone else. 

Communication: Talking about feelings and problems with a partner builds trust and strengthens bonds. 

Trust: Beyond believing that your partner is not cheating on you, it is about feeling comfortable and secure. 

Honesty: Expressing sincerely what you do, think and feel. 

Personal space: Each member of the couple should have time and space to devote to their friends and hobbies. 

Respect for opinions: It’s not necessary that both people think the same way, respect is essential when disagreements arise. 

Forgive and apologize: We can all make mistakes and it is important not only to accept and apologize for them, but also to be willing to understand and accept the other person’s apology. 

Support and praise: It is important to recognize the partner’s achievements and permanently motivate him/her to be his/her best version. 

Permanent interest: Always be attentive to their thoughts, goals and daily aspects, but without becoming obsessed. 

Fun time: Having time to laugh together, make jokes and have fun is essential to help relieve the stress of everyday life. 

Physical intimacy: Regardless of the level of intimacy a couple shares, physical connection is still important. 

Teamwork: Working together, caring for and supporting each other makes the relationship increasingly solid. 

Conflict resolution: Communication and respect should be the basis when dealing with disagreements. 

Do not lose sight of the aspects above so that you can build that relationship you have always dreamed of. It is not just about spending time with someone else, it is about sharing time, feelings, interests, dreams, and growing together. 

How to identify a healthy relationship? 

Evaluating your relationship can be very useful to verify if the bond is healthy or if, on the contrary, there are warning signs to pay attention to. Answering the following questions can shed light on the type of relationship you are building. 

• Does your partner listen to and respect your ideas? 
• Does your partner give you space to share with friends and family? 
• Do you enjoy the time you spend with your partner? 
• Are you comfortable expressing to your partner that something is bothering you?
• Do you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with your partner? 
• Do you feel comfortable communicating your sexual preferences to your partner?
• Does your partner strive to have a good relationship with your family and friends?
• Does your partner take pride in your successes?
• Does your partner respect when they think differently? 

Identifying in time how things are working in your couple relationship can be useful to correct aspects that require it and not allow aspects that have been left in silence to become negative emotions that can deteriorate the bonds. 

You may also be interested in: Why should there be mutual consent in a sexual relationship? 

Beware of abusive relationships

If you identify warning signs when evaluating your relationship, it is important that you take action and avoid staying in a relationship that is not good for you. If you feel you need help, you can find support at online sites such as Love is respect or Rainn. 

Remember, you can also find resources and support in the #YoDigoNoMas Movement and if you are a survivor of sexual abuse you can break the silence and share your story.