Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Relationship: Real Talk

Let’s be real for a second. When a relationship first starts, it feels like the most magical thing in the world. Everything is new, exciting, and full of love. You’re both giving your best effort, and the spark is there, burning bright. It feels like it will never fade, right? But, as time goes on, reality sets in. You’re still in love, but now you’re noticing each other’s quirks—those little pet peeves that didn’t matter before. Jealousy might creep in. You’ll fight over silly things, like what to watch on TV, or why they didn’t cook dinner “the right way.” Maybe you’ll even start to feel like you’re drifting apart, or worse, misunderstood.

And honestly? That’s okay.

Because here’s the thing: relationships aren’t meant to be perfect. They take work, and that’s where the magic really happens. Yes, you’ll argue. Yes, there will be moments where you feel frustrated, distant, or like you just can’t get on the same page. But over time, you’ll learn how to get through those rough patches and come out stronger on the other side. It might not be the same as it was in the beginning, but it can become even more pure and genuine.

So, how do you keep a relationship healthy? Let me share a few things I’ve learned along the way.

Trust Is Non-Negotiable

First and foremost, trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship. You’ve got to remind yourself that your partner is not your ex. I get it—it’s hard to let go of past fears and baggage, especially if you’ve been hurt before. But a healthy relationship means allowing yourself to trust, even if it’s scary. Trusting your partner doesn’t mean you’re ignoring your past; it means you’re choosing to believe that this person won’t hurt you the way others have. And if you ever feel like trust is slipping, it’s important to talk about it—don’t let it fester.

Communication Is Key

Honestly, communication is my number one priority in a relationship. Why? Because almost every problem I’ve faced in relationships has boiled down to poor communication. It’s not always about what you say; it’s how you say it. Maybe you used the wrong tone, or your partner misinterpreted something you said. It happens to all of us. But when communication breaks down, that’s when little issues turn into big problems.

So, here’s the secret: talk about everything. Your feelings, your concerns, your thoughts, and especially things that might’ve been misunderstood. A relationship where both partners feel heard is a relationship that thrives. And if you’re not sure how to get your message across, don’t be afraid to ask your partner to clarify what they mean, too.

Don’t Stop Putting in Effort

One of the biggest myths about relationships is that once you’re “official,” the effort can stop. It’s like, “Okay, I’ve got them now, I don’t need to try anymore.” That’s a dangerous mindset. Never stop putting in the effort to keep things fresh, interesting, and fun. Whether it’s planning a date night, sending a thoughtful text, or just doing the little things that show you care, it’s important to keep nurturing the bond.

If you’re unsure how to keep the spark alive, I’ve got a whole blog on that! But the takeaway here is simple: effort doesn’t end just because you’re comfortable. Comfort is great, but so is the excitement of keeping things new and alive.

Expect to Love and Fight (But Always Make Up)

The reality of love is that it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. You’re going to have disagreements, big and small. Sometimes, you might even feel like you don’t understand each other anymore. But what matters most is how you handle those moments. If you can argue, work through it, and still come out the other side stronger, then you know you’re in a healthy relationship.

Your partner is your teammate, not your enemy. The love you share should be the glue that helps you weather every storm—whether you’re crying over a big argument or laughing about something silly.

My Final Thoughts

In the end, relationships aren’t about perfection. They’re about learning, growing, and choosing each other—over and over again. You’ll have your ups and downs, but if you keep trust, communication, and effort at the core of your relationship, you’ll find that the bond you share becomes even more meaningful as time goes on.

So, remember: love, fight, disagree, make up, and keep showing up for each other. That’s what makes a relationship strong. It’s not about avoiding the tough times; it’s about knowing that you can face them together—and still come out stronger.