No one sets out to find an unhealthy relationship. Sometimes, thanks to years of bad habits, an unhealthy relationship unfolds without us realizing it. There are three important factors to master in order to have a fulfilling and healthy relationship. Don’t let the fact that we mention only three fool you into thinking it’ll be easy, though. The three C’s of a healthy relationship are communication, compromise, and commitment, and they’re anything but easy. They are, however, possible for those who are willing to put in the effort.
Communication
Without transparent, honest communication, a relationship is destined for two confused and dissatisfied partners. There are two forms of communication: verbal and nonverbal. Let’s dive a little deeper into each of them.
Verbal Communication
Verbal communication involves how we speak and what we say. When it comes to verbal communication, tread cautiously as we can quickly hurt the one we love with harsh words, creating permanent damage.
Try to put yourself in your partner’s shoes when speaking. Rather than lashing out and arguing, schedule time for a proper discussion with your partner. Setting aside time to talk alleviates tension and prompts preparedness. Preparation often leads us to realize that something escalated into an argument for no apparent reason.
When you are upset, slow down, step back, and communicate your feelings with succinctness.
Keep in mind that verbal communication isn’t all about arguments and hurt feelings. Remember to communicate your needs in all areas of your relationship rather than assuming your partner has it all figured out.
And last but not least, communicate kindness on a daily basis. Tell your partner you love them. Remind them daily how grateful you are for them, and these actions will be reciprocated.
Nonverbal Communication
How does your body language look when communicating with your partner? Nonverbal communication speaks volumes when it comes to what we’re feeling and saying.
The first step in radiating body language that says, “I love you, and this conversation is important to me,” is to purposefully pay attention to what your body is doing. Think about how you look as your partner is speaking with you or as you are speaking. Here are a few things to keep in check to ensure sincere and loving nonverbal communication:
- Relax your shoulders, as tenseness tends to originate there.
- Make eye contact, which indicates honesty and interest in your partner’s thoughts and feelings.
- Uncross your arms. Crossed arms display a closed-off, stubborn disposition.
- Smile if appropriate and nod in agreement to show support and understanding.
Compromise
If you view every conversation as a one-way road without compromise, a healthy, happy relationship is unlikely. Healthy relationships involve compromise. When we meet the love of our life, it seems we have everything in common and are attached at the hip. As time goes on, we find there are a few differences and interests that aren’t necessarily shared. Inevitably, compromise is a necessary part of a lasting relationship.
It takes two people to comprise a relationship, with each person having their own ideas, opinions, and interests. They are the spice of life and what makes relationships fun—if you learn to compromise. Let’s say you love the ballet, and your partner is a die-hard baseball fan. Split your Saturday, and each of you do your own thing. Then share the details over breakfast the next morning. Or better yet, remove preconceived notions about ballet and surprise your partner with tickets. There’s a good chance you’ll receive a pair of baseball tickets in return.
Nothing shows love like bending a little here and there just to see your partner light up with joy as they experience things they love. Perhaps ballet will even become a new pastime!
Needless to say, compromise comes in many forms and is necessary on a daily basis. Moves, career changes, children, and the day-to-day little things all need loving negotiations and interpersonal pliability.
Commitment
When it comes to the three C’s of a healthy relationship, commitment is number one. Without commitment, a relationship will cease to exist.
If you are committed to the relationship, you are dedicated to it no matter what. Good days, bad days—you’ll both be there. There’s no greater security and nothing more beautiful than true commitment. Many people may begin a new relationship with the greatest of intentions and sincere commitment. Life happens, along with mistakes and pains that are tough to get through, and some of these can destroy one’s commitment to upholding the relationship. It’s essential to commit wholeheartedly to your romantic partner and stay by their side through thick and thin.
The bad days will come, and in fact, you can count on it. It’s when they come that commitment takes center stage, shining bright for all to see and declaring that no matter what, your relationship withstands the tests of time.
Hopefully, these thoughts have encouraged you to fight daily for the love of your life. Using the three C’s as a model to go by each day gives your relationship an advantage over those who blindly go through life without using them. If you haven’t met the love of your life yet, imagine the beauty of that future relationship, and what you’ve learned to strengthen it toward long-term success.
Another benefit of understanding the three C’s in a relationship is using them when getting to know a potential new partner. Ask them their thoughts on these ideas and watch for clues and red flags as to whether or not they truly understand and employ the importance of all three.
Platinum Poire, your VIP dating service in NYC, believes strongly in the three C’s of a healthy relationship. We believe in finding our elite singles their perfect match. After all, your time is precious! Contact Platinum Poire to find the one you’re prepared to commit to as you both enjoy loving communication, compromise, and commitment.
