which relationships last the longest

Relationships are built on numerous factors and finding ones that last the longest are usually those built on healthy communication, respect, boundaries, intimacy, and support. Relationships are sources of comfort, buffers against negative outcomes, and areas for personal growth and intimacy. Relationships and love affect our brains just as much as drugs do, resulting in feelings of happiness and satisfaction.

Communication        

Communicating is the way that we express ourselves to others and can be both verbal and non-verbal. Communication plays a role in long-term relationships because it’s a way to maintain friendship and intimacy within these relationships. Healthy communication allows emotions to be seen and responded to for both partners in a relationship, whether platonic or romantic. The key to communication in a long-term relationship is communication that is direct and honest.

Boundaries

Boundaries serve the purpose of protecting ourselves in relationships. Boundaries are put in place to maintain comfort and safety in the relationships that we engage in. In longer-term relationships, boundaries are meant to be respected and not violated or pushed against. Respecting others’ boundaries is a sign of love, trust, and respect and speaks to how others feel about you.

Intimacy

Intimacy, or closeness, is crucial in a relationship to feel fulfilled and satisfied. Intimacy can take many forms, including physical, spiritual, and emotional. Intimacy draws us closer to others and allows us to feel vulnerable and deeply connected with others.

Respect

Respect for another person is the main foundation for the beginning of any relationship. Respect is being able to treat another person as a person instead of feeling as if they are only useful for what they can give you or provide you. Respect means seeing others as individuals and being okay with individual differences.

Support

Relationships are built on support, no matter the circumstances. There are many ways to support others in relationships, but support allows us to feel comfortable and validated, no matter what else happens. Support is crucial to a relationship because it takes effort to do and allows others to feel loved and validated. Support can be emotional or physical but is a way of showing others how you feel about them.