Relationships are an important part of life and can help us feel connected, supported, happy, and fulfilled. They can be platonic, romantic, in-person, or virtual.
They can be complicated and involve many emotions, but in general, they should have some of the following characteristics:
Intimacy. This includes physical intimacy such as kissing, hugging and cuddling together as well as emotional intimacy like talking openly about things that are important to you and having someone listen to you. It’s also important that both partners are on the same page about sexual activity and are happy with each other’s needs in this area.
Commitment. Being in a relationship means that you are committed to the person you’re with, even through tough times. This can be as simple as deciding to make time for each other and working together on something that you both enjoy, or it can be more formal, such as agreeing to move in with each other or get married.
Positive energy. Having a partner with whom you can be yourself, share your dreams and aspirations, laugh together, and support each other through hard times, helps to keep you happy and healthy.
Many people think that relationships take work, and this is true – but not in the way that most people think. It’s more like working on a project you really care about, and it’s probably easier to put in the extra effort when you’re doing something that brings you joy.