Components to a Healthy Relationship

Last year this time, I wrote a blog post that addressed 2 key components to a healthy relationship. While there are many components needed for a healthy relationship to thrive, this post will address another two - compromise and love. 

Compromise - a relationship consists of two separate individuals who generally have different personalities, upbringings and thoughts. Problems within a relationship can often arise when the two individuals either do not know how to come to terms over something they disagree with or are unwilling to do so. This can also result in a stubbornness mentality or a "tit for tat" relationship whereby each person becomes more focused on sticking to what they believe is right instead of focusing on different ways to resolve the problem. 

The ability to comprise can allow a couple to meet halfway while also respecting the other person's right to his/her opinion. Compromising is a skill that requires the ability to listen and communicate, something that can be hard to do when a couple is at odds with each other and emotions get in the way. Hence, why some couples will seek the assistance of a non-judgmental third party like a therapist. 

Love - as defined by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is "a feeling of strong or constant affection for a person."  At the core of any relationship, a certain level of affection, concern, care and regard for the person you are with is needed in order to overcome certain differences. Love is often the stepping stone that allows us, at the very least, to consider and respect the views of our significant other. While love will not resolve all issues within a relationship, it is a strong force that can pave the way for better communication and compromise. 

What are your thoughts on the role of compromise and love in a relationship? Please share your thoughts below.