Lots of factors are important to maintaining a healthy relationship. When two people decide they want to be emotionally invested in one another, things sometimes become complicated. Here are a few ways to avoid the complications. (Disclaimer: These tips will in no way improve an unhealthy relationship. If you think you may be in an unhealthy relationship, please do your best to remove yourself from the situation. Here are resources if you need help getting out of the relationship.)
1. Don't stop going on dates.
This one is pretty easy. If you're thinking, "But I'm a broke college student, how can I still take my partner out on dates?" There are so many free ways to go on dates. Even just doing your homework together or going on a walk can contribute to the health of your relationship.
2. Talk to each other!
If something is bothering you, tell your partner! Having the problem build up in your head will only make it worse. Even if it's uncomfortable, you will be glad you opened up to them. Also, make sure your "talking" isn't just texting. You can't show emotion through a text in the same way you can in a conversation.
3. Be involved in each other's lives.
You have to be each other's biggest cheerleaders, otherwise this won't work. Be friends with each other's friends and attend each other's events. Also, if your friends do not like your partner, it may be a red flag.
4. Make each other laugh!
If you can't laugh around the person you love, are you really happy? Laughter is the key to your own personal health, so of course, it will also contribute to making your relationship stronger and healthier.
5. Your love should always be growing.
My love for my partner extents beyond just him, but to his friends and family, as well. If your love for your partner is not growing, then it is dying. It's important to want to know the people closest to your partner and have some serious love for them, too.
6. Be honest and trust each other.
It's hard to put yourself out there sometimes, especially when it comes to showing someone who you are. If you can't be honest or confide in your partner, that is the biggest red flag there is.
All in all, the most important thing about a healthy relationship is that you continue to love each other. If you find yourself not feeling this way, maybe it's time to gain a new perspective. The end of a relationship is not the end of your life; it is the beginning of a new you. Enjoy exploring who you are as a person. You can't love somebody else fully until you love yourself fully.
