Having a healthy relationship with someone else can be a beautiful thing. It’s a friendship, confidante, lover and support system, all wrapped into one person that you know will be there for you when you need them the most. They’re there to cheer you up after a bad day, listen to your problems and make sure your family knows that they’re yours (and vice versa).
You spend time with them, talk about your hopes and dreams, work together on things you’re interested in, and support each other through tough times. You trust them with your secrets, and they trust you in return. They’re supportive of your hobbies, interests and passions and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. They’re the first people you call when you have good news and they know how to make you smile.
If you’re in a long-term, committed relationship with a partner, you both agree to remain in the partnership and take on all of its responsibilities. You may share money, living space, or other resources and you make decisions for the benefit of both of you. This is usually the point where a couple decides to move in together, get married, or have children.
Relationship is a general term that can be used to describe any kind of connection, whether it’s romantic or platonic, serious or casual. There are a variety of relationship types, including monogamous, polyamorous, and open. The word relationship is also commonly used to describe a legal partnership, such as a marriage or civil union. It can also refer to a connection that isn’t legally binding, such as an acquaintance.
Your relationships can impact your mental and physical health in a positive way. They can boost your self-esteem, help you overcome depression and anxiety, and keep you from aging faster than you should. They can also provide emotional and sexual intimacy, which are both important aspects of a happy life.
However, some relationships aren’t healthy or safe. If you find yourself feeling unhappy or unsafe in your relationship, don’t let it continue. Take some time to evaluate your needs and the quality of your relationship, then communicate your feelings to the person in question.
Defining your relationship can be scary, but it’s essential for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life. Check out our complete guide to DTR, or defining the relationship, plus a whole list of relationship labels to consider. And remember, it’s okay to take your time – rushing into a committed relationship can lead to heartbreak and resentment. So, slow down, take it easy and love yourself – your significant other will thank you for it. :)). This article originally appeared on YourTango and has been edited for clarity.