Toxic relationships are usually easy to spot, but it’s possible that even without the obvious markers, you could be in a less than healthy relationship.
In a perfect world, you’d be part of a 50/50 partnership in which both of your needs are met and you both feel equally loved, supported, and cared for. So, how do you know if your relationship is in this league? See how many of the following experiences you relate to.
1. You feel heard and understood.
In a healthy relationship, your partner listens to your thoughts and feelings, even if they don’t always agree with them. They make an effort to understand your perspective and validate your emotions. You feel comfortable sharing your joys, fears, and dreams without fear of judgment or dismissal.
2. There is mutual respect.
Respect is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. Your partner values your opinions, boundaries, and personal space. They don’t belittle you, insult you, or try to control you. You feel appreciated and valued for who you are, not who they want you to be.
3. You feel safe and supported.
A healthy relationship provides a safe haven where you can be yourself without fear of criticism or ridicule. Your partner encourages you to pursue your goals, celebrates your successes, and offers a shoulder to cry on during tough times. You feel loved and cherished for who you are, flaws and all.
4. You can be yourself.
Source: Unsplash In a healthy relationship, you don’t feel the need to hide your true self or pretend to be someone you’re not. You’re comfortable expressing your quirks, passions, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or rejection. Your partner loves you for your authentic self, not a version of you that they’ve created in their mind.
5. You trust each other.
Source: Unsplash Trust is the glue that holds a relationship together. In a healthy relationship, you trust your partner to be honest, faithful, and supportive. You don’t feel the need to constantly check up on them or worry about their intentions. You believe in their love and commitment to you.
6. You can disagree without drama.
Source: Unsplash Disagreements are inevitable in any relationship, but in a healthy one, they don’t escalate into World War III. You and your partner can have different opinions without resorting to insults, name-calling, or manipulation. You listen to each other’s perspectives, compromise when necessary, and find solutions that work for both of you.
7. You make each other laugh.
Source: Unsplash Laughter is the best medicine, and it’s also a key ingredient in a healthy relationship. Your partner knows how to make you laugh, even when you’re feeling down. You share inside jokes, funny stories, and silly moments that brighten your days and strengthen your bond.
8. There is no emotional or physical abuse.
This should be a given, but sadly, it’s not always the case. In a healthy relationship, there is no place for emotional or physical abuse. Your partner doesn’t insult you, belittle you, intimidate you, or harm you in any way. You feel safe and respected in your relationship, and you know that you can always walk away if things become toxic.
9. You have healthy boundaries.
Boundaries are a must for any healthy relationship. They define what you are and are not willing to tolerate, and they protect your emotional and physical well-being. Your partner respects your boundaries and doesn’t try to push them. You feel comfortable communicating your needs and expectations without fear of reprisal.
10. There is a balance of power.
In a healthy relationship, there is a balance of power. Neither partner controls the other, and both have an equal say in decisions. You feel like you have a voice in your relationship, and your opinions are valued. You’re not afraid to speak up and assert yourself, and your partner doesn’t try to silence or manipulate you.
11. You both make an effort.
Relationships take work, and in a healthy one, both partners are willing to put in the effort. You both make time for each other, prioritise your relationship, and show your love and appreciation through words and actions. You don’t take each other for granted, and you both strive to make the relationship the best it can be.
12. You have your own lives outside of the relationship.
A healthy relationship doesn’t mean being joined at the hip. You and your partner have your own interests, hobbies, and friendships. You encourage each other to pursue your individual passions and maintain your own identities. This separation allows you to grow as individuals while still nurturing your connection as a couple.
13. You communicate openly and honestly.
Communication is key in any relationship, but in a healthy one, it’s open, honest, and respectful. You feel comfortable talking to your partner about anything and everything, from your deepest fears to your silliest thoughts. You listen to each other without judgment, express your feelings without fear, and resolve conflicts constructively.
14. You celebrate each other’s successes.
In a healthy relationship, you’re each other’s biggest cheerleaders. You celebrate each other’s successes, big and small, and you offer support and encouragement during challenging times. You take pride in each other’s accomplishments and feel genuinely happy for each other’s happiness.
15. You grow together as a couple.
A healthy relationship is a journey of growth and self-discovery. You and your partner learn from each other, challenge each other, and support each other’s personal development. You evolve as individuals and as a couple, navigating life’s ups and downs hand in hand.
