Relationships are a beautiful thing. They help us feel loved, like we belong. They give us support and help us press on throughout all the struggles of life. However, there are some relationships that just don't do any of that. They drain you, pressure you, and make you feel trapped. I like to call those "toxic relationships," and they are not good. Everyone on earth should avoid relationships like these at all costs. But how do you know what relationships you should keep and which ones you should end? It's actually easier than you think. Know the signs of healthy relationships and find them. These are the five signs that you're in a relationship worth keeping.
(Disclaimer: This list does not apply only to romantic relationships. These signs are true for friendships and everything in between.)
1. You can talk about anything.
And by anything, I mean anything. No topic is off-limits. From personal problems to stuff that's just plain weird, you two can talk about any subject under the sun without ever having to worry about them judging you. Even if they may not want to hear it, they won't hesitate to talk about it.
2. You basically refer to each other as family.
When you get close to someone, you find yourself being around them more often. That's all part of building a relationship. The longer you're together, the more comfortable you are with each other. After a while, the line between "friend" and "family" begins to blur. You start treating each other like your own flesh and blood. Even your biological family gets used to having them around. If you find yourself unironically calling someone family (and have no problem with calling them family), then your relationship is worth holding on to.
3. Nothing is offensive.
This is both a dangerous and wonderful place to be. Wonderful for the two of you, dangerous for those around you. While insulting is not a healthy thing to do, being able to insult each other without hurting one another is definitely a sign of a healthy relationship. It doesn't stop at insults, though. If you're able to give each other an attitude or make fun of each other without hurting each other's feelings, then your relationship is in good shape.
(Another disclaimer: This doesn't necessarily apply to all relationships. It's more of a matter of preference. Please don't start insulting your friends because you can. You might hurt their feelings, and it'll make me look bad. But it'll mainly hurt them. And nobody wants that.)
4. You believe in each other.
We all have dreams. Some dreams are realistic, some dreams are big. No matter the size, dreams give us something to aim for and look forward to. They give us a reason to press on. However, there are people out there who will smash your dreams in a heartbeat. There are also people who will help you achieve those dreams. Find people like that. I am currently close to someone who is a very realistic dreamer. I am a big dreamer. We share each other's dreams every chance we get. Not once have either of us told the other that their dream was unrealistic. When I tell them my huge dreams, they respond with ways to make them bigger. Surround yourself with people who build you up. When your head is in the clouds, find someone who will raise you to the stars.
5. You love each other.
You never have to say it. I know it feels weird, especially if you're not used to loving or being loved. The words "I love you" can feel weird to say in any relationship, romantic or otherwise. But that's fine, because you're not required to say it. You can show it. When you listen to their problems, help them through hard times, laugh at their dumb jokes, and just simply show interest in their lives, you show your love for them. Having someone appreciate you and care for you is the best feeling in the world. There's absolutely nothing like it. When you find that feeling, never let it go. When you find that person, never let them go.
