9 Things That Are More Important Than Love In A Relationship

Two people and the love they share make a relationship but love alone cannot sustain a relationship. For a relationship to thrive, certain things are more important than love. Without them, relationships will not be healthy and hence will not stand the test of time.

Here are Nine other things healthy relationships need aside from love:

1.  Trust

Trust is needed to make and keep healthy relationships. To trust someone means that you can rely on them and are comfortable confiding in them because you feel safe with them. Without trust, you will waste your time worrying about what your partner says or does. Trust gives you the liberty to share your heart with your partner. No one deserves a love that needs them to keep tabs or constantly worry about what the partner might be doing behind their back.

2. Respect

A relationship with mutual respect means that one person is not “in charge”.  This means that you both value each others’ opinions and advice.  A relationship is a bond between two adults with different opinions and views. Respecting each other is the basic foundation you need for a healthy relationship.

3. Loyalty

Loyalty is simply deciding to stay faithful to your partner. Resisting the urge to flirt back with your colleague, ignoring romantic messages from an old lover, and such. Loyalty also means supporting your partner and standing by their side. Regardless of how strong the urges or temptations are, always choose your partner.

4. Commitment

Once you accept to be in a relationship with someone, you automatically become obliged to them. Without commitment, there is no expectation of the relationship going to the future. a committed relationship involves two lovers giving their all to the relationship.

5. Compromise

Compromise is very similar to selflessness and sacrifice in a relationship. When you love someone, you will not hesitate before giving up something you like to make them happy.  A healthy relationship is one where you do not mind letting go of some of your needs to accommodate those of your partner.

6.  Communication

If there is something that is considered a pillar of relationships, it is Communication. The act of communicating not only helps to meet your needs but also helps build connections in your relationship.  Communication is crucial. Make time to talk about what’s bothering you. Talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly. Not being able to speak your heart or share your thoughts openly is very deadly in a relationship.

7.  Forgiveness

Forgiveness is one of the most important contributors to a healthy relationship. Studies have shown that couples who practice forgiveness are more likely to enjoy longer, more satisfying romantic relationships. Forgiveness in a relationship creates room for growth. Relationships are rocky sometimes, but forgiveness helps you navigate through it.

8.  Happiness

Happiness within a relationship is hard to define. For some, happiness involves a tremendous amount of fun, great intimacy, or lots of laughter.  While happiness has many different definitions, it is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction. Your relationship should add to your happiness and not limit it.

9.  Friendship

This is probably the most underrated, yet one of the important things in a relationship.  Friendship is said to be one of the characteristics of a happy relationship and a  and lasting marriage. When you are friends with your partner, you will have shared interests that enhance your time together.