You’re collaborators in conflict: Even if there are moments of tension or even outright conflict, you and your partner(s) are committed to working through it together. You see your arguments as “Us vs. Issue” and ask yourselves the question, “How can we collaborate with each other to come to a resolution?” You are committed to learning more about each other's communication styles in order to feel more equipped to tackle these tasks together.

You show up as yourself: It’s common practice for so many of us to put on some sort of “mask” when we are navigating through our days and having all kinds of social interactions. We often focus on projecting our best selves in the world, and this can be intrinsically exhausting. Your relationship acts as a refuge and feels like a safe space to show up as your full self. You don’t feel like you have to keep up an act to be seen in any particular light by your partner(s).

You establish boundaries: We all know someone who gets into a relationship and seemingly vanishes off of the face of the earth. A relationship that goes the distance involves an understanding that each partner is encouraged to exist as an individual both within and outside of the relationship. You feel comfortable expressing boundaries that are important to you, and your partner(s) make it a point to respect them.

You respect and are curious about differences: No matter how in sync you may be with your partner(s), there still may be some differences between your identities, beliefs, values, etc.  You know that ultimately your partner(s) will make an effort to understand you and your experiences to the extent that they can. You and your partner(s) show curiosity about how each other navigates the world as a way to display and enrich the empathy that you have for each other.

You practice their love languages: We all have particular ways of expressing that we love and care about someone, as well as ways that we like to receive love and care. A relationship that goes the distance involves each partner making an effort to show love in the ways that their partner likes to receive it. You prioritize understanding your partner(s) preferences and learning how you can incorporate it into your practice.