If you're looking for a partner or in a relationship, you should know the qualities of a healthy relationship so you can decide if your relationship is worthwhile or unhealthy. People who end up in abusive relationships often overlook the signs of an unhealthy relationship such as extreme jealousy, threats, poor communication and insecurity. When you find a healthy relationship, you have to consistently work at it to maintain it.
Honesty and Trust
To have healthy relationship you have to be honest with each other to develop trust. If you find out that your partner has been dishonest, it makes it harder to build trust which is one of the basic principles of healthy relationships. Two things that break down trust are jealousy and insecurity. If someone is overly jealous or insecure, he may not be able to trust his partner, which can cause arguments and break-ups.
Respect
There is no such thing as a healthy relationship without respect. Trust and respect are two of the most important pieces to having a good relationship. Respect means that you listen to your partner, refrain from yelling at him or calling him names and treat him like you would want to be treated. Both partners must respect each other or the relationship will not work or could become abusive. You know you respect your partner when you value who she is as a person and would not do things that make her feel uncomfortable.
Individuality
Sometimes people get swept up into relationships and start to lose their individuality. A couple who becomes too dependent on each other can find themselves in an unhealthy situation. Giving up your hobbies and interests for your partner will hurt your relationship. She fell in love with you for who you are, so you shouldn't have to change your core values to make her happy. Try to include each other in your interests instead of letting them go.
Communication
Do you really listen when your partner talks to you about something she cares about or do you already have a response ready? Active listening means hearing what your partner says to you and being able to understand her point of view. You don't have to always agree with your partner to have good communication. In fact, differing opinions is healthy, because you're individuals. You should be able to have discussions about things that you feel differently about without calling each other names or shouting. The silent treatment is unhealthy and should be avoided. Talk about your feelings.
Fun
A healthy relationship entails enjoying each other's company and having fun together. Of course you're going to have some conflict, but the majority of the time shouldn't be conflict. You should look forward to spending time together. It's a bad sign when you start making up excuses about why you can't hang out and feel obligated to spend time with her.
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