When you’ve been in far too many toxic relationships to count, recognising a truly good one when it comes along can be tough.
A healthy relationship doesn’t mean everything is always perfect, but it does mean you’re thriving together and navigating life’s ups and downs as a team. If you’ve found a partnership where you feel secure, respected, and supported, you’re on the right track. Here are a few more signs you’re in a healthy relationship, along with tips on how to protect what you’ve built.
1. You communicate openly and honestly.
In a healthy relationship, you both feel comfortable expressing your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. There’s no fear of judgment or retaliation. Open communication means being able to discuss the good, the bad, and the mundane without hesitation. Make sure you brush up on your active listening skills, and always make space for each other’s viewpoints. Keep honesty at the heart of your interactions.
2. You trust each other fully.
Trust is the bedrock of a solid relationship. You don’t need to second-guess each other’s actions or intentions because there’s a foundation of reliability and integrity. If you find yourself trusting without hesitation, that’s a strong sign you’re in a healthy place. Protect it by maintaining transparency and avoiding behaviours that might destroy trust, like secrecy or dishonesty.
3. You respect each other’s boundaries.
Healthy relationships thrive on respect for personal space and limits. Whether it’s needing time alone, having separate hobbies, or setting limits around intimacy, boundaries are acknowledged and honoured. Always communicate your needs clearly and respect when your partner does the same. Healthy boundaries keep resentment and misunderstandings at bay.
4. You feel safe and secure.
Feeling emotionally and physically safe is non-negotiable. In a healthy relationship, there’s no fear of harm, ridicule, or emotional manipulation. You can be vulnerable without worrying about exploitation, so ensure that mutual respect and empathy remain priorities. If conflicts arise, approach them calmly rather than lashing out.
5. You both make an effort.
Relationships require effort from both sides. In a healthy dynamic, both of you contribute to making things work, whether it’s planning date nights, resolving disagreements, or showing affection. To protect this balance, appreciate each other’s efforts and avoid slipping into complacency. Consistency in showing up for each other keeps things strong.
6. You support each other’s growth.
Healthy relationships encourage personal development. Whether one of you is pursuing a new hobby, career goal, or personal milestone, there’s genuine support and encouragement. It’s so important to celebrate each other’s achievements and allow space for growth. Avoid feeling threatened by your partner’s ambitions; instead, see them as an opportunity to grow together.
7. You have healthy disagreements.
It’s normal to disagree, but in a healthy relationship, arguments don’t spiral into disrespect or resentment. You listen, understand each other’s perspectives, and work towards solutions. No matter how upset you are, avoid blame games or hurtful remarks. Focus on resolving issues rather than “winning” the argument.
8. You share core values.
While you don’t need to agree on everything, having shared values creates a solid foundation. Whether it’s views on family, honesty, or life goals, being aligned in the big things helps you navigate challenges together. Stay on the same page by going over your values periodically to ensure you’re still on the same page as life evolves.
9. You enjoy each other’s company.
Spending time together feels enjoyable and fulfilling. Whether you’re going on adventures or simply lounging at home, you genuinely like being around each other. Keep prioritising quality time, even when life gets busy. Shared experiences strengthen your bond and create lasting memories.
10. You maintain your individuality.
In a healthy relationship, you don’t lose yourself. You still have your own friends, interests, and passions. Maintaining individuality means you bring more to the relationship. Protect this by encouraging each other to pursue personal hobbies and friendships outside the relationship. Independence keeps the dynamic fresh and balanced.
11. You show appreciation regularly.
A simple “thank you” or acknowledging the little things your partner does goes a long way. In healthy relationships, gratitude flows naturally and consistently. That means you have to make sure you don’t take each other for granted. Regularly express appreciation, whether it’s for small gestures or bigger acts of support.
12. You feel equal in the relationship.
Healthy relationships are built on equality, not power struggles. Neither partner feels superior or inferior. Decisions are made together, and responsibilities are shared. Always ensure that both of you have a voice in the relationship. Check in periodically to see if either of you feels unheard or overburdened.
13. You’re comfortable being yourselves.
You can be your authentic self without fear of rejection or judgment. Whether you’re goofy, serious, or vulnerable, your partner accepts and loves you for who you are. Protect this by embracing authenticity and creating a judgment-free space. Celebrate each other’s quirks and imperfections.
14. You forgive and move forward.
In a healthy relationship, mistakes are acknowledged, and forgiveness is given. You don’t dwell on past conflicts or use them as weapons. Instead, learn to forgive genuinely and avoid harbouring grudges. Letting go of minor grievances ensures that resentment doesn’t build up over time.
15. You plan a future together.
If you’re in a healthy relationship, you both envision a shared future. Whether it’s planning holidays, discussing career goals, or imagining long-term commitments, you’re aligned on where you’re heading. Keep discussing your hopes and dreams regularly. Shared goals and visions give the relationship direction and purpose.
