People use the word “relationship” to describe a wide range of connections, including family relationships, friendships, acquaintanceships and romantic ones. There are also more nuanced categories like work and teacher/student relationships.
Strong, thriving relationships are often marked by natural reciprocity. This means that the people in a relationship give and receive support and affection on an equal basis. This type of healthy exchange can help reduce stress, increase feelings of connectedness and support for one another and improve overall health by decreasing the production of cortisol (a stress hormone).
You know you’ve found “the one” when you’re able to be your most authentic self with that person. They understand you in a way that few others can, and they challenge you to grow and improve yourself. When life’s challenges come, they don’t tear you apart; instead, they strengthen your bond by making you stronger and more capable of meeting them head on.
The most important thing to remember is that relationships aren’t something you can force or cram into your schedule. They take time to develop and can only be nurtured by committing to them in an honest, genuine and authentic manner. Also, be sure to avoid comparing your relationship to those of your friends or family members. Everyone’s experiences are different, and you must focus on your own relationship to determine if it’s fulfilling. If it is, it will be worth the effort. If not, you may need to look elsewhere for a more compatible partner.