8 Essential Elements That Should Never Be Missing From Your Relationship

Just as the saying that there are no roses without thorns, every relationship has its problems. The fact is, these are two very different people who have come together intending to be one. Of course, each one has a different up-bring, background, etc. Hence, there are diverse ways each one sees and understands a particular thing.

That notwithstanding, every relationship needs some vital attributes to keep it stronger, long lasting and more enjoyable for both partners. Some relationships are strong enough to last a lifetime, and it’s not attributed to luck or chance. It all depends on the continuous efforts from both parties and a desire to be together.

Just like you cannot do away with some particular ingredients when cooking some foods,there are certain qualities that should never be missing from a loving partnership. Once they are, it’s only a matter of time until things start to fall apart.

There is no single secret to a long lasting relationship. Instead, it’ll take the efforts plus some other factors from both parties involved to make things work.

Checkout these 7 essential elements every strong relationship should have;

1. Friendship

Friendship, is often the first step to every relationship. You become friends to know more about each other. Here, you get to share your problems, happiness, fears etc with each other. You also get to know some of the strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes about each other, not forgetting the temperaments as well. Hence, a lasting friendship often equals a strong relationship.

2. Teamwork

Don’t forget that, you are no longer single the moment you agree to enter into a relationship with someone. Hence, there are some decisions and choices you’ll have to consult your partner to make together. Your significant other is your partner in life and, therefore, your greatest support system. After all, two heads, they say are better than one. You’ll be much more successful by working with and not against each other.

3. Trust

This is one of the most important elements in every relationship. There are many people in relationships without trust for their partner. This is sometimes due to a past relationship where the other got disappointed perhaps because of too much trust. However, this shouldn’t deter you from trusting your new partner, both are not the same. If friendship is the foundation, distrust is what can seep in between the cracks and make it all crumble. It doesn’t matter if you and your partner check off all the other nine items on this list. Your relationship will not survive without trust. One person’s doubt is enough to drive the rest into the ground no matter how good things are.

3. Respect

Of course, mutual respect is one key element to a long lasting and stronger relationship. Every healthy relationship should be built upon mutual respect. Both parties should recognize each other as equals and should always be open to their partner’s thoughts, beliefs, concerns, and needs. Never consider yourself to be superior than your partner’s.

4. Intimacy

OK, don’t get it all wrong, intimacy is not only limited to sex. Although we all know that sex has become a necessity in a relationship and that it does play a crucial role in relationship success. However, it comes in layers, becoming more authentic and sweeter with time and care. Intimacy requires a deeper understanding of each other that’s far more significant than physical attraction. Don’t forget there are still strong and beautiful relationships out there surviving without sex. I mean, there are countless number of cases out there where relationships have lasted much longer without sex. Both parties will have to know how to define their intimacy and the things to add or subtract from it.

5. Affection

Hey love birds, the honeymoon will soon pass. And so will the phrase of not being able to keep your hands off each other naturally fade over time. But that shouldn’t mean that affection should be completely forgotten. Verbal and physical reminders, such as saying “I love you” and touching when speaking, reinforce your connection. That’s why communication is also an important ingredient. You can always play and tease each other. It’s very healthy for every relationship

6. Communication

Just as mentioned earlier, communication is key in every relationship. How do you settle your disagreements, petty quarrels and misunderstandings, all though communication. Sometimes, you don’t even need to talk, but your actions and gestures will speak for you. Don’t ignore calls from your partner simply because you’re angry at them. Hey, this has cost a lot of good things in some relationships. Just pick up and listen to what they have to say. It could be a matter of life and death. COMMUNICATION IS KEY.

7. Honesty

The second either of you begins hiding things from each other, your relationship will begin to run off track. You should be able to share anything with your SO while receiving love and support in return. Secrets can become cancerous and snowball into further damage. You’ll always carry a sense of guilt as long as you keep things to yourself, and your and your partner’s dynamic is bound to be affected.

8. Support

Gone are the days where men were the ones to pay the bills and women to do the household chores. What’s wrong with a woman paying the bill or adding her money to it for her husband to pay? What about when a man extends a helping hand to his wife in the kitchen or with the chores? It spoils nothing. You should always be each other’s biggest cheerleader. Encourage your partner to go after what they want. Assure them that you’ll be by their side no matter the result. By being excited about each other’s achievements and celebrating even the little things, both parties benefit from a supportive relationship. Support and help each other in both times of good and bad.