Building a deeply connected relationship doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey filled with ups and downs that bring you closer. While every relationship is unique, certain traits consistently indicate a profound connection between partners. From mutual respect to unwavering trust, these 15 traits are major relationship goals.
1. Mutual respect.
Respecting each other means speaking highly of each other to others and being proud of your relationship and everything it means to you. When both partners genuinely value each other’s opinions, feelings, and boundaries, it fosters a deep sense of connection and understanding. Mutual respect means you think of each other first in all situations.
2. Open communication.
Effective communication is vital for any relationship to thrive. When you and your partner can openly express your thoughts, emotions, and concerns without fear of judgment, it signifies a deep level of trust and intimacy. Especially during the tough times, being able to talk to each other means you never have to feel alone in your feelings.
3. Shared values and goals.
A sense of unity and purpose in a relationship comes from being on the same page about your goals. When you and your partner align on fundamental beliefs and aspirations, making decisions that affect your shared future becomes easier. That feeling of harmony can only strengthen your connection and reinforce your commitment to each other’s happiness both individually and as a couple.
4. Emotional vulnerability.
Being emotionally vulnerable with your partner means sharing your deepest fears, insecurities, and vulnerabilities without reservation. When both partners feel safe enough to be vulnerable, a deep emotional connection follows. Your partner is the person who should know you the best and without emotional vulnerability, true connection is elusive.
5. Unwavering trust.
Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. Just look at the couples who are constantly paranoid about lying and cheating—they don’t seem very happy, do they? When you and your partner have a deep sense of trust in each other’s words, actions, and intentions, it creates a secure bond built on reliability and loyalty. You never have to waste energy wondering what they’re doing when you aren’t together.
6. Shared interests and hobbies.
Shared interests are important in the beginning of a relationship to give you something to connect over, but they become even more important later on when you’re spending more time together. Instead of one partner always compromising, you have things that you both enjoy doing—this strengthens your bond and adds excitement to your relationship.
7. Genuine empathy.
Empathy allows you to truly understand and resonate with your partner’s emotions and experiences. When both partners demonstrate genuine empathy towards each other, it cultivates a profound sense of closeness. Feeling like your partner understands you helps you feel at home with them and you’ll want to continue to open up to them even further.
8. Constant support.
From losing a family member to going through a challenging patch with your career, life comes with plenty of tough times and a supportive partner can make all the difference in how you cope. Support means being there for each other through both the good times and the bad. If you and your partner consistently offer encouragement, assistance, and understanding, your bond will only get stronger.
9. Healthy conflict resolution.
Conflict is inevitable in any relationship, what matters is how you handle it. The key is approaching conflict with respect and empathy, whether it’s a mundane argument over whose turn it is to do the dishes or a fight over extended family drama. It’s important to hear each other out and be willing to compromise. If you can master that, your connection will only deepen.
10. Physical intimacy.
Physical intimacy plays a significant role in fostering closeness and connection between partners. There’s no such thing as “normal” when it comes to physical intimacy—what matters is that you’re both happy with your dynamic and can talk about it if that changes. From how much bedroom time you’re having to other forms of physical closeness like cuddling on the couch, the way you show affection is important in growing your connection.
11. Shared moments and experiences.
Shared memories and experiences build a unique history and connection you won’t have with anyone else. From traveling together and trying new restaurants, to simply enjoying day-to-day life, these shared moments create a sense of belonging and unity. Without quality time spent together, you won’t have the same sense of “us” that’s so important in a long-term relationship.
12. Mutual support for individual growth.
How often do you hear about couples growing apart because they aren’t the same people they were when they first got together? Sometimes, it’s for the best, but some couples have mastered the art of growing together. It’s not always easy to pursue your individual goals and growth while in a relationship, but it is possible. If you and your partner do it, it’s because you have a deep connection that is evolving alongside you.
13. Constant laughter.
Everyone has a sense of humor on their list of “must-haves” in a partner. That’s because laughter has a way of making you feel connected and like you’re sharing something special. When you and your partner can embrace a sense of playfulness, it lightens the mood and brings joy to your relationship in unexpected and irreplaceable ways.
14. Unconditional love and acceptance.
Everyone has flaws, but if you’ve found someone whose flaws are actually kind of endearing, hold on to that. Accepting each other without judgment or expectation creates a bond that can’t be broken. Unconditional love means you never have to worry that you’re not good enough for your partner—you’re there for each other no matter what.
15. Future planning and commitment.
Planning for the future together demonstrates a deep commitment to your relationship. Whether discussing long-term goals, making joint decisions, or envisioning your life together, it solidifies your bond and reaffirms your dedication to each other’s happiness and well-being.
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