Relationships have been described as the building blocks of our lives, they give us comfort and support. They are where we share our secrets and fears, where we lean on each other for advice, and where we feel loved.
Being in a relationship can have a number of benefits for your life, from lower stress levels and better sleep to more social connections and a robust physical health. It’s no wonder that people crave it and are willing to commit to the many challenges and rewards that come with a healthy relationship.
While pinning down the exact reasons why relationships are so beneficial to humans isn’t always easy, there are a few key factors that tend to contribute to their success. Those include:
A healthy relationship is one where both parties are invested in the success of the relationship. This means putting in the work to communicate openly and respectfully, respect each other’s interests and needs, and supporting each other’s pursuits.
Relationships also provide an opportunity for self-growth and learning. They are a safe space to practice listening and conflict resolution skills. When you spend a lot of time with someone, it’s inevitable that you will learn about them and their quirks, including their personal and professional struggles.
In a healthy relationship, the two people share similar values and goals, which helps them to achieve their dreams and make decisions that are in their best interest. Whether it’s finding a career that they enjoy or having a supportive family structure, both partners benefit from being able to rely on each other for guidance.
The right partner can bring out the best in you, and they can also teach you things about yourself that you may have not noticed before. For instance, if your partner has an adventurous spirit and loves to travel, you might discover that you have a passion for discovering new places. Or if your partner is a dedicated volunteer, you might find that you have a deep appreciation for the power of community service.
When you’ve found “the one,” you often have a sense that this person is right for you, a deeper connection that transcends the ordinary. It might be a feeling of knowing that you are the same in important ways, or perhaps a recognition that they share your values and have a similar worldview. In any case, you can usually tell when you’ve found the one because your lives seem to align more closely than before.
Of course, life isn’t without its challenges and every relationship sees its fair share of ups and downs. But when you’re with “the one,” hardships tend to unite you rather than tear you apart, and they inspire you to become a stronger, more capable individual. This can apply to both romantic and non-romantic relationships, including casual ones like the one you have with your local shopkeeper or the neighbour three doors down. Those connections, even if they’re short-lived, can help you to maintain a positive outlook on your life and boost your mood.