Do you know what a healthy relationship looks like? Knowing the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships can be extremely difficult, especially if you’ve had a pattern of unhealthy relationships. Here are six key attributes that every friendship, marriage, and relationship need.
1. Affection
Affection is one of the best ways to show love. However, if you grew up in a family where affection was not shown, it may be hard for you to show affection. When one person loves another, it is normal and healthy to show affection for each other. Every healthy relationship needs affection in one form or another. Look for opportunities to use body language, gestures, and words to demonstrate your love.
2. Respect
Every healthy relationship involves respect. And it begins when you learn to respect yourself. After all, you are worthy because God has forgiven you and made you worthy. Extend grace and forgiveness to others—not only for who they are now but for the person they will become in the future. Remember, God is at work on their lives.
3. Shared Values
To have a healthy relationship with someone, find out what values you share and build upon them. Shared values bring you closer together and make a relationship even stronger. Some important values are:
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- Faith
- Teamwork
- Perseverance
- Flexibility
- Integrity
4. Honesty
A must-have for any relationship is honesty. Two people who are open and honest with each other will create an environment of trust and love. Dishonesty, though, wrecks any relationship. You must be honest in everything you do. And expect honesty from anyone you have a relationship with.
5. Trust
Trust is an assurance of love. When you don’t trust someone, you don’t think they love you. Would you like to rebuild trust in a relationship? Talk to the other person. And let them know you’d like to be closer to them so your relationship can be everything that both of you long for it to be.
6. Freedom to Be
A healthy relationship is not about control—it’s about freedom! Allow others to be themselves; let them be who they are and who they want to be. And make sure they do the same for you. Neither of you should be afraid to be yourself. Sharing your uniqueness is a great way to grow in any relationship.
Would you like to know more about how to have healthy relationships? Steve Arterburn’s book, 6 Things Every Healthy Relationship Needs, will help you! To order, call (800) 639-5433.