People who have healthy, loving relationships with others feel more secure and fulfilled in life than those who are single or uncommitted. These types of relationships help us through life’s rough storms and provide support as we take risks and chase our dreams. It is important that we respect one another as individuals and don’t try to change them. We also need to be open about everything in the relationship, including things we’re interested in or fantasies we have.
Everyone has an image in their head of how a relationship should work: Both people finely balance the time spent together with their own responsibilities and spend time on engaging, invigorating activities. They cook and clean for each other (although maybe not at the same time). They go out with friends. They celebrate birthdays and holidays. They share hobbies, passions and interests.
But not every relationship is what it’s cracked up to be. Some people are in relationships that don’t make them happy or that they’re not sure they’re right for them, but they stay because of family pressures, financial reasons or simply because they feel like it’s what they’re supposed to do.
There is nothing wrong with this, but it’s important to understand what kind of relationships you’re in and the impact they can have on your life. It’s also important to recognize the benefits of having supportive relationships in your life and realize that being part of a loving, committed relationship is worth the effort.