Being in a healthy relationships means:
- Respecting individuality, embracing differences, and allowing each person to “be him/herself.”
- Discussing things, allowing for differences of opinion, and compromising equally.
- Expressing and listening to each other’s feelings, needs, and desires.
- Trusting and being honest with yourself and each other.
- Resolving conflicts in a rational, peaceful, and mutually agreed-upon way.
Other Characteristics of a Healthy Relationship:
- Recognizing and respecting each person’s individual rights
- Open communication
- Mutual respect for opinions
- Equality in decision making
- Shared respect for each other’s values
- Respect for each person’s sexual boundaries
- Willingness to honestly discuss problems
- Willingness to tell your partner what you need or want
- Always using a nonviolent approach to resolving conflict
- Understanding that conflict and anger are okay
- Taking responsibility for yourself
- Accepting the fact that everyone makes mistakes
- Owning your own mistakes
- Joy and playfulness