Stay or Go? 7 Relationship Factors to Consider When Evaluating Yours

You’re been dating for a while now and things are getting more serious, maybe you’re even living together, or considering it, at this point. Do you sometimes wonder if this relationship is THE ONE? Here are some things to consider:

1. Happiness is Key: Think about how you feel when you're with your partner. Do you smile and laugh a lot? If you mostly feel happy and like yourself, that's a good sign. But, if you're often sad or angry, it might not be the right fit.

2. Respect Goes Both Ways: Do you and your partner listen to each other and treat each other kindly? Respect is super important. You should both care about each other's feelings and opinions.

3. Being Yourself is Important: In a healthy relationship, you can be who you really are. You don't have to pretend to like things you don't or be someone you're not. Your partner should like you for you!

4. Talking Things Out: When there’s a problem, can you talk about it and find a solution together? Good communication means you both can share your thoughts and feelings without being afraid or upset.

5. Trust is a Must: Trusting each other means you feel safe and sure about your partner. If you're always worried about what they're doing when you're not around, it might be a sign that something’s not right.

6. Equal Effort: Both of you should be putting in effort to make the relationship work. If only one person is trying hard, it’s like trying to clap with one hand.

7. Feeling Good About the Future: Think about your future together. Does it make you happy and excited? If thinking about the future with your partner makes you worried or unsure, it’s important to consider why.

If you're noticing some of these signs and feel unsure, it’s okay to talk to someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or even a therapist. They can help you think about what’s best for you. Remember, the most important thing is that you feel happy and safe in your relationship.