Being in a relationship that makes you feel happy and fulfilled is one of the greatest joys in life. However, as many of us know, relationships can also be challenging and require work in order to maintain.

Fortunately, the scientific community has spent countless hours trying to understand what makes a relationship successful. Here are some insights from the research that can help you nurture a happy relationship:.

Open communication

One of the most important factors in maintaining a happy relationship is open communication. This means being able to talk about your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with your partner in a non-judgmental and empathetic way.

It also means allowing your partner to do the same with you.

Research has shown that couples who communicate openly are more likely to be satisfied with their relationship than those who don’t.

Additionally, communication helps to build intimacy and trust, which are vital components of a healthy relationship.

Shared values and interests

Couples who share common values and interests tend to have stronger and more fulfilling relationships. This is because having shared goals and interests provides a sense of shared identity and purpose.

Additionally, research has found that couples who engage in novel and exciting activities together tend to feel more passion and romance in their relationship. This can be as simple as trying a new restaurant or taking a dance class together.

Emotional support

Feeling emotionally supported by your partner is crucial for building a happy relationship. This means feeling like your partner is there for you when you need them and that they are willing to listen to your concerns and offer support and empathy.

Studies have found that couples who offer each other emotional support tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

Respect and kindness

Respect and kindness are fundamental components of a healthy and happy relationship. This means treating your partner with dignity and understanding, even when you disagree or are upset with each other.

Research has shown that couples who exhibit respect and kindness towards each other are more likely to have a lasting and satisfying relationship.

Sexual satisfaction

Sexual satisfaction is an important aspect of a happy relationship. This means feeling fulfilled and satisfied with the sexual aspects of your relationship, as well as feeling comfortable discussing sexual concerns with your partner.

Studies have found that couples who have a high level of sexual satisfaction tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction overall.

Shared responsibility

Sharing responsibility in a relationship is important for building trust and a sense of equality. This means working together to make decisions and dividing tasks and responsibilities fairly.

Research has shown that couples who share responsibility for household and financial tasks tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

Forgiveness and empathy

Forgiveness and empathy are crucial components of a healthy and happy relationship.

This means being able to forgive your partner when they make mistakes and demonstrating empathy and understanding towards them when they are going through a difficult time.

Studies have shown that couples who practice forgiveness and empathy tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

Quality time

Spending quality time with your partner is important for building a strong and happy relationship. This means setting aside time to connect with each other on a regular basis and engaging in activities that you both enjoy.

Research has shown that couples who spend quality time together tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

Positive attitude

Maintaining a positive attitude is important for building a happy relationship. This means choosing to focus on the positive aspects of your partner and your relationship, and being willing to let go of small disagreements and conflicts.

Studies have found that couples who maintain a positive outlook tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

Commitment

Finally, commitment is an essential component of a healthy and happy relationship.

This means being willing to work through the challenges that inevitably arise in any relationship and being committed to building a long-lasting and fulfilling partnership with your partner.

Research has shown that couples who are committed to their relationship tend to have higher levels of relationship satisfaction and are more likely to stay together.

In conclusion

If you’re looking to build a happy and healthy relationship, there are a number of factors that can help to support your partnership.

From open communication to shared values and interests, kindness and respect to sexual satisfaction and shared responsibility, the scientific community has identified a number of key components that can help you build a strong and fulfilling relationship with your partner.