Relationships are a huge part of a person’s social support system. They provide a sense of belonging, safety, and a foundation for one’s health and well-being. They can be short-term, like a summer fling, or long-term, such as a college roommate or coworker. Different types of relationships have varying purposes and include friendships, parent-child relationships, romantic relationships, and business partnerships.
Whether they’re good, bad, or in between, relationships have their own unique way of helping us become the best versions of ourselves. They’re also a great place to practice our communication and conflict resolution skills. When a relationship is working well, it’s usually because both parties are actively trying to make it better. It’s a great place to learn how to give and receive unconditional love, and it’s often where we find the person who is most like us.
Keeping a connection with your partner through life’s shitstorms is critical. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by work, kids, a demanding house, or a myriad of other things going on in your life. You and your partner should be the eye of the hurricane that keeps you grounded in your commitment to each other. Without that, you’ll wake up 20 years later to find out that your obnoxious brother-in-law is married and living in a monastery or your parents have passed away, and all you have left are your memories.