11 Qualities of a Relationship That Make It Successful

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Love… it’s a wild ride, right?

It brings people together in the most magical ways, but what’s the secret sauce that makes some relationships go the distance?

We’ve all seen those couples who seem to have it all figured out. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about fireworks and roses!

Sure, passion and romance are great, but the real MVPs are communication, trust, and understanding. Yep, those are the qualities of a relationship that truly set the successful ones apart.

So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s chat about what really makes love last!

What is a successful relationship?

There is no one answer to this question, as everyone’s definition of success will differ. However, a successful relationship means two people who are happy and compatible with each other. 

A happy relationship means that both partners are happy and fulfilled with the relationship and with each other.

Dionne Eleanor, Relationship & Empowerment mentor, says

A healthy, happy relationship can be described as a ‘container’ where you go on adventures embodying your true self with someone who is a mirror. This person reflects and, where possible, supports in the positive magnifying of your personal growth.

Some key elements are generally considered essential in a successful relationship. These include trust, communication, and affection. 

Without these things, a relationship is unlikely to last very long, and it is likely that one or both of the partners will leave it at some point.

All relationships go through ups and downs, but there are certain things that can make them stronger and help them to last longer.

11 important qualities of successful relationships

Wondering how to have a successful relationship that stands the test of time? 

It’s not all hearts and flowers, my friend! Sure, romance is important, but there’s a whole toolbox of qualities of a relationship that really make it thrive. 

Let’s dive into the key characteristics of successful relationships that will keep you and your partner smiling through the ups and downs!

1. Communication

Talking… it’s more than just words! 

Good communication is like the Wi-Fi of relationships; without it, everything falls apart. Share your thoughts, feelings, and even those silly jokes. Listen actively and respond thoughtfully. 

Misunderstandings? 

Address them right away. The more you talk, the more you understand each other. It’s the foundation of how to build a strong relationship.

Remember, silence might be golden, but in relationships, it’s often overrated!

How to practice it: Set aside time each day to talk without distractions. Practice active listening by summarizing what your partner says and asking questions to show you’re engaged. Be honest and clear about your feelings and needs.

2. Trust

Trust isn’t just given; it’s earned. Think of it as the glue that holds everything together. Trust means being reliable and keeping promises. It’s about believing in your partner’s words and actions. 

When trust is strong, so is your bond. Little lies can snowball into big issues, so honesty really is the best policy. If you want a crash course on how to have a successful relationship, start here!

How to practice it: Be consistent in your actions and keep your promises. Avoid secrets and be transparent about your intentions. Show vulnerability by sharing your fears and hopes, which encourages your partner to do the same.

3. Respect

Respect… it’s not just Aretha Franklin’s favorite word! It’s about valuing your partner’s opinions, feelings, and boundaries. Show appreciation and kindness even when you disagree.

A little respect goes a long way in making your partner feel cherished. This is one of those key qualities of a relationship that can turn good into great. So, keep the eye-rolling to a minimum and the compliments flowing!

How to practice it: Listen without interrupting and acknowledge your partner’s viewpoints. Show appreciation through words and actions. Avoid belittling or dismissive language, even in heated moments.

4. Empathy

Step into their shoes… not literally, of course, unless you share the same size! Empathy means understanding and sharing your partner’s feelings. 

It’s about being there in both happy and tough times. When you show empathy, you create a safe space for your partner. It’s one of those qualities of a great relationship that promotes deeper connections. So, hug more, judge less!

How to practice it: Pay attention to your partner’s emotional cues and respond with understanding. Validate their feelings by saying things like, “I understand why you feel this way.” Offer support and comfort when they’re down.

5. Patience

Patience is a virtue, especially in relationships. Let’s face it: we all have our quirks and bad days. Being patient means giving your partner the grace to be human. 

It’s about not sweating the small stuff and giving each other time to grow. Patience can be the secret weapon in how to build a strong relationship. So, take a deep breath and count to ten… or maybe twenty!

How to practice it: Take a moment before reacting to annoyances. Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes. Practice deep breathing or counting to ten to stay calm. Communicate calmly when addressing issues.

6. Compromise

It’s not all about winning! Compromise is about finding a middle ground where both partners feel satisfied. It’s one of the essential qualities of a relationship that keeps things balanced.

Whether it’s picking a movie or deciding on holiday plans, meeting halfway shows that both voices matter. Remember, it’s about us, not me vs. you. Flexibility here can turn conflicts into cozy chats!

How to practice it: Discuss issues openly and find solutions that work for both of you. Be willing to give a little to gain a lot. Make decisions together, ensuring both partners feel heard and valued.

7. Support

Be their biggest cheerleader! Support means standing by your partner in their dreams and challenges. Celebrate their successes and comfort them in their failures.

It’s one of those characteristics of successful relationships that builds trust and loyalty. Show up for each other, whether it’s a big moment or a bad day. Your unwavering support can be the wind beneath their wings… cue the Bette Midler song!

How to practice it: Encourage your partner’s goals and dreams. Offer help and encouragement during tough times. Celebrate their achievements, big or small. Be present and attentive, showing you care.

8. Independence

Together but not tethered! Independence means allowing each other space to grow individually. Healthy relationships thrive when both partners have their own hobbies, friends, and time alone. 

This quality of a relationship ensures you both bring something fresh to the table. It’s about balancing togetherness with personal freedom. So, encourage that solo trip or the boys’ night out!

How to practice it: Support each other’s interests and hobbies. Spend time apart to pursue personal goals. Respect each other’s need for space and alone time. Trust that time apart can strengthen your bond.

9. Humor

Laugh together, stay together! Humor can diffuse tension and strengthen your bond. Sharing jokes, funny moments, and even laughing at yourselves can make tough times easier. 

It’s one of those things for a successful relationship that keeps the spark alive. So, embrace the silly moments and keep the laughter rolling… after all, who doesn’t love a good belly laugh?

How to practice it: Share funny stories and jokes regularly. Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself. Use humor to lighten tense moments. Plan fun activities that make you both laugh.

10. Commitment

Stick with it! Commitment means being dedicated to making your relationship work, no matter what. It’s about investing time, energy, and love consistently.

Dionne Eleanor adds,

True deep, passionate intimacy is one where those within the relationship can show up 100% as themselves, where they are physically and emotionally naked at the same time. This type of intimacy is not always obtained overnight or always consistent but rather cultivated and practiced by two devoted partners.

This is a cornerstone of how to have a successful relationship. Show your partner they are a priority and that you’re in it for the long haul. With true commitment, you can weather any storm together.

How to practice it: Show your partner you’re in it for the long haul through consistent actions. Make time for each other regularly. Discuss your future plans together. Be there for each other in good times and bad.

11. Gratitude

Say, thank you… often! Gratitude means appreciating the little things your partner does. It’s about recognizing their efforts and expressing how much they mean to you.

A grateful heart creates a positive and loving environment. This is one of the top qualities of a great relationship. So, don’t hold back those thank yous and sweet gestures—they really make a difference!

How to practice it: Express appreciation for your partner’s efforts regularly. Write notes or send messages to show your gratitude. Say thank you often, even for small things. Reflect on the positives in your relationship and share them.

13 ways to maintain the spark in your relationship

Keeping the spark alive in a relationship can feel like a juggling act, but it’s worth every effort. 

Whether you’re in the honeymoon phase or years into your journey together, maintaining that magic takes more than just love songs and candlelit dinners. 

So, how do you keep things exciting?

Here are 13 fun and practical ways to ensure your relationship stays fresh and full of spark!

1. Plan regular date nights

Date nights aren’t just for new couples! Regularly scheduling time to go out or even stay in for a special evening can keep the romance alive. It breaks the routine and gives you something to look forward to. 

Whether it’s a fancy dinner or a cozy movie night, these moments help you reconnect and remember why you fell in love. So, put it on the calendar and make it happen!

Make sure to remember:

• Consistency is key; make date nights a regular part of your routine.
• Keep it fun and varied to avoid monotony.

2. Surprise each other

Who doesn’t love a good surprise? 

Little unexpected gestures can add a lot of excitement to your relationship. It doesn’t have to be grand – a sweet note in their lunch or an impromptu weekend getaway works wonders. 

These surprises show thoughtfulness and keep things from becoming too predictable. Plus, the anticipation and reaction are always fun to witness!

Make sure to remember:

• Surprises should be thoughtful and personalized to your partner’s likes.
• Balance small daily surprises with occasional bigger gestures.

3. Communicate openly

Talking isn’t just about sharing the day’s events. Open and honest communication is one of the essential qualities of a relationship. Share your dreams, fears, and even those random thoughts. 

It keeps you connected on a deeper level. Regularly checking in with each other ensures you’re both on the same page. So, keep those conversations flowing… they’re more important than you think!

Make sure to remember:

• Practice active listening to understand your partner truly.
• Address misunderstandings promptly to avoid lingering issues.

4. Try new activities together

Ever thought about taking a dance class or trying out a new sport together? Exploring new activities can add excitement and bring you closer.

It breaks the monotony and gives you fresh experiences to bond over. Whether it’s cooking a new dish or going hiking, these adventures can reignite that spark. Plus, it’s always fun to discover new interests together!

Make sure to remember:

• Be open to stepping out of your comfort zone.
• Choose activities that interest both of you for mutual enjoyment.

5. Show physical affection

Hold hands, hug, and kiss often! Physical affection is a powerful way to maintain intimacy and connection. It’s one of those fundamental qualities of a relationship that shouldn’t be overlooked. 

In addition, Dionne Eleanor says,

I encourage couples to seek out the 5 love languages by Gary Chapman. It’s an incredible resource that can help you show affection in a way your partner can enjoy

Simple gestures like a warm embrace after a long day or a spontaneous kiss can make a big difference. So, don’t be shy – show your love through touch!

Make sure to remember:

• Physical touch is a non-verbal way to show love and support.
• Even small gestures like holding hands can strengthen your bond.

6. Keep flirting

Remember how you used to flirt when you first met? 

Don’t let that go! Playful teasing, compliments, and little flirty gestures keep the romance alive. 

It’s a fun way to remind your partner that they’re still the one who makes your heart race. So, send that cheeky text or whisper sweet nothings… keep the spark of attraction burning bright!

Make sure to remember:

• Flirting keeps the excitement and mystery alive.
• Make your partner feel attractive and desired regularly.

7. Support each other’s goals

Being each other’s cheerleader is crucial. Support your partner’s dreams and ambitions. Celebrate their successes and be there during setbacks.

This mutual support strengthens your bond and shows you’re truly invested in each other’s happiness. It’s one of those qualities of a relationship that creates a strong foundation for lasting love. So, be their biggest fan!

Make sure to remember:

• Celebrate milestones and achievements, no matter how small.
• Offer encouragement and help during challenging times.

8. Laugh together

Laughter really is the best medicine, especially for relationships. Sharing jokes, funny stories, or even silly moments can lighten the mood and bring you closer.

It helps you get through tough times and keeps things from getting too serious. So, watch a comedy, remember inside jokes, and find reasons to laugh together… it’s a joyful way to keep the spark alive!

Make sure to remember:

• Humor can diffuse tension and bring a fresh perspective.
• Don’t take yourselves too seriously; enjoy the lighter moments.

9. Take time apart

Yes, you read that right! Spending time apart can actually strengthen your relationship. Pursue your own hobbies, spend time with friends, and have solo adventures.

This independence allows you to grow individually and brings fresh energy into your relationship. It’s healthy to miss each other a bit, making the time you spend together even more special.

Make sure to remember:

• Encourage personal growth and individual interests.
• Time apart can enhance the appreciation of time together.

10. Revisit happy memories

Take a trip down memory lane! Reminiscing about happy moments you’ve shared can rekindle feelings of love and connection.

Look through old photos, visit places that hold special memories, or simply talk about your favorite times together.

Dionne Eleanor comments:

Too many couples focus on the big things; celebrating the mundane, the small things that occur during the big dramatic ups and downs that life brings, is the true recipe for relationship longevity.

It reminds you of the journey you’ve been on and why you chose each other. So, get nostalgic and celebrate your history!

Make sure to remember:

• Reflecting on positive memories reinforces your bond.
• Use past experiences as a foundation to build new ones.

11. Practice gratitude

Expressing gratitude can transform your relationship. Regularly acknowledging and appreciating the little things your partner does promotes a positive and loving environment. 

It’s one of the key qualities of a relationship that keeps it thriving. Whether it’s a simple thank you or a heartfelt note, showing gratitude makes your partner feel valued. So, never underestimate the power of those two little words!

Make sure to remember:

• Regularly express gratitude for your partner’s efforts.
• Small acts of appreciation can have a big impact.

12. Keep learning about each other

People change and grow over time. Stay curious about your partner’s thoughts, dreams, and experiences. Ask questions and engage in deep conversations. 

Dionne Eleanor states,

Seeking advice in love isn’t just about finding answers; it’s the intimate dance of curiosity and connection that creates a relationship depth.

This continuous learning keeps your connection strong and prevents complacency. It’s like discovering new layers of the person you love. So, keep exploring each other’s hearts and minds… there’s always more to learn!

Make sure to remember:

• Regularly engage in meaningful conversations.
• Be open to discovering new aspects of your partner.

Watch this TEDx Talk where Julie and John Gottman, the world’s leading relationship scientists, talk about healthy couples fight and how they make your relationship stronger:

13. Make intimacy a priority

Physical and emotional intimacy is the glue that holds relationships together. Don’t let the busyness of life push it aside. Make time for intimate moments, whether it’s a romantic night or a heartfelt conversation. 

Prioritizing intimacy keeps the connection alive and strengthens your bond. So, light those candles, play your favorite love songs, and cherish those special moments together!

Make sure to remember:

• Regularly set aside time for intimacy.
• Physical and emotional closeness are both important for a strong bond.

Final thought

In the end, the most successful relationships are the ones that are built on a foundation of trust, communication, and mutual respect. Relationship counseling can help couples develop these key foundational elements and work through any issues that may be impacting their relationship.

By embracing these key qualities of successful relationships, you and your partner can create a love that is not only enduring but also enriching and fulfilling.

With patience, dedication, and a commitment to growth, your relationship can stand the test of time and be a source of joy and support for years to come.