Relationships – The Cornerstone of Happiness
Whether you are in a romantic relationship or just have great friends, relationships can be the cornerstone of your happiness. They can make you feel happy and energized by having someone to spend time with, and they can also help with stress management, a healthy lifestyle, and even longevity (research shows that having social connections adds years to your life).
Relationships can take many forms, from romantic to platonic, and they can be in-person or virtual. However, the most important aspect of a relationship is its trust. You have to be able to trust your partner not to leave you or hurt you, and they have to be able to trust you with their feelings. In a meaningful relationship, there is a lot of communication (which can be challenging sometimes), and both partners try to make an effort to show each other affection through words and actions. Learning your partner’s love language is also a great way to show them how much you care.
In addition to all of this, both partners need to respect each other’s independence and be able to discuss their needs without feeling threatened or attacked. When things go wrong, both partners make a point to repair the issue and don’t let it deteriorate into negative emotions or arguments. Lastly, meaningful relationships are mutually beneficial, meaning that both partners have something to offer each other. They can encourage the “silent” parts of each other to come out more often, or help each other balance their hectic schedules.