Relationships are an integral part of life. There are many different types of relationships, ranging from friendships and acquaintanceships to romantic and familial relationships. There are also professional and community relationships, and even some that are not so well-defined. Regardless of the type of relationship, positive relationships add meaning and value to one’s life.
When two people are in a relationship, they are committed to each other and usually share common interests, values and goals. This commitment is sometimes expressed by formal legal contracts such as marriage and civil unions. Relationships can be monogamous or polyamorous, casual or formal, and can be sexual or non-sexual.
Whether it’s a spouse, significant other, friend, parent, or coworker, the person with whom you are in a relationship is someone you love and cherish. In a healthy and respectful relationship, both parties respect each other’s feelings, physical and emotional boundaries, and take care of each other in any way they can. Taking small actions, such as holding hands or giving each other random kisses throughout the day, are ways that show your partner that you are thinking about them and that they mean a lot to you.
Being in a relationship can make you happy because when you see the person you love, parts of your brain are stimulated. The happiness that results from being in a relationship can last for a long time.
In addition, being in a loving relationship can provide you with the sense of security and safety that can help to reduce your stress levels. It can also encourage you to pursue your dreams and to take risks, as you know that your partner is there for you to support you, no matter what.
While many people believe that being in a good relationship is about meeting a checklist of criteria, it’s actually more about how you feel when you’re with the person you’re in a relationship with. If you feel a deep connection, if you can be yourself with them and they can meet your needs, and if you are attuned to their joys and struggles, then you may have found the one.
Often, people stay in unhealthy relationships because they think that the work of being in a relationship is difficult or exhausting. While healthy relationships do require effort, the work that they involve is not so different from what you might put into a hobby or a school project. It might take a little more energy, but it is still work that you are motivated to do and that makes you happy. It is a rewarding investment in your relationship and your life.