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There’s no standard formula for building a healthy relationship, whether you are new to dating or already married. Every romantic relationship is unique; people stay or leave it for various reasons. Of course, we want to be in a stable relationship, but that only happens with effort. A healthy relationship has to be nurtured and cared for. 

Our relationships with others, whether platonic or romantic, reflect our true selves and needs. When we lead a healthy relationship, our lives become more satisfying, and every day feels great, like the lives in Donald Marcus Welch’s non-fiction My Lost Identity. Differences exist, but with love, our relationships, including the ones with ourselves, thrive. No relationship is perfect, but we can always do something to make it work.

All relationships go through ups and downs. Our relationship with our partners would look like the ultimate romantic comedy film we all love in an ideal world. A boy meets a girl, falls in love, and chooses each other regardless of life’s sudden twists and turns. However, reality is stranger and more complex than fiction. We must put in the hard work necessary to keep our relationships blooming. Read on to find out some of the practical ways you can nourish your romantic relationship and keep it healthy.

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Tips for Building a Healthy Relationship

Healthy relationships lead to a more positive life, while unhealthy ones can hinder happiness. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your partner happy.

1.      Spend Quality Time Together

When the relationship is budding, everything feels exciting. Couples are usually fun and playful in the early stages of a relationship. However, that should not end. You must have fun regardless of how long you and your partner have been together. Think of playful ways to surprise your partner or engage in activities you both love. It could be as simple as cooking your favorite dishes together or exploring the hottest shows on Netflix in your free time. These shared activities will strengthen your bond and make you feel more connected. 

2.      Stay Connected by Communicating

Good communication is necessary in building a solid relationship. Most conflicts end poorly, not because nothing can be done about them. Instead, the lack of communication makes the couple fall apart. Refrain from making your partner guess. Communicate what you feel and what your needs are to understand each other. Also, genuinely listen and be attentive to your partner’s feelings. Try your best to understand their perspective.

3.      Keep Physical and Emotional Intimacy Alive

Physical intimacy helps build deeper emotional connections between partners and fosters faith, trust, and support. Take note: if you’re not comfortable talking to your partner about sexual health and history, you may need to reconsider being physically intimate with them.

Meaningful emotional connection can be achieved by being open about your innermost thoughts and receptive when your partner shares theirs. Sharing stories, asking questions, and exploring new hobbies together are active ways to strengthen your emotional bond with your partner.

4.      Share a Sense of Purpose

Relationships work better when a couple shares the same goal. As early as the relationship begins, it would help if you could share your plans with your partner. In that way, your partner knows where things are heading in your relationship. Whether about finance or family planning, sharing a common purpose will help build a healthier relationship.

5.      Create a Judgement-Free Space for Each Other

Understand that even though you are in a relationship, you and your partner still need to grow as individuals. Learn how to accept each other’s boundaries and support them on their quest for personal goals. You may conflict with each other, but choose to forgive them. Be a source of positive energy and inspiration to your partner instead of fear, worry, or jealousy.

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Characteristics of Healthy Relationships

In a relationship, discovering what works for you and enhancing your connection is a joyous journey. Building healthy relationships can be challenging, but it should only sometimes feel like work. Revel in the joy of growing and nurturing yourself and your partner as you journey together.

A healthy relationship is one where trust, honesty, and positivity thrive. It acknowledges that not everything is perfect, but the key is the willingness to grow. Just like maintaining physical health, handling our relationships requires us to be proactive. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and always appreciate the love of your life.

Need inspiration for matters of the heart? Grab a copy of Donald Welch’s “THE LOVE I THOUGHT I KNEW” on Amazon. The book is based on loyalty and the test of love for an individual.