As a relationship expert, I know that it’s not always easy to tell if a relationship is built to last. Navigating the world of relationships can feel like a maze sometimes.

But there are specific signs that indicate you’re in a unique bond that could very well stand the test of time.

These aren’t just about grand gestures or fairytale romance, but rather about authentic connection and mutual respect, things that stand at the core of every lasting relationship.

Today, we’ll explore 8 such signs.

Trust me, if you spot these, you might just have found your happily ever after. So, let’s dive in!

1) You communicate openly

Communication is the bedrock of any lasting relationship, and it goes beyond just chit-chat about your day.

In a rare and enduring relationship, you’ll find a safe space to express your thoughts, emotions and even vulnerabilities without the fear of judgment. You’ll discuss not just the pleasant things, but also the uncomfortable ones.

Consider this as the cornerstone of emotional intimacy, where both of you can be your authentic selves. It’s not always easy, and it requires effort from both ends.

But when you’re able to talk about anything under the sun, from your dreams and aspirations to your fears and insecurities, that’s when you know you’ve got something special.

2) You respect each other’s individuality

As a relationship expert, I’ve seen many couples struggle because they try to mold their partners into their ideal version instead of accepting them as they are.

But in a relationship that’s built to last, you’ll find a deep-seated respect for each other’s individuality.

Your partner appreciates you for who you are, and vice versa. They don’t try to change you but rather support your personal growth. You celebrate your differences, knowing that they make your bond richer and more interesting.

3) You argue, and that’s a good thing

Now, this may sound a bit strange, but bear with me. Disagreements in a relationship are not only normal, they’re actually healthy.

It’s how you handle those disagreements that matter.

Relationships that are likely to last forever aren’t the ones where partners agree on everything. Instead, they’re the ones where partners can have a disagreement, argue, but still respect each other’s perspectives.

The key is constructive conflict. It’s about expressing your feelings and thoughts without attacking each other. It’s about hearing each other out and finding a compromise or solution.

4) You maintain a healthy balance of dependence and independence

Here’s a truth I’ve learned in my years as a relationship expert – maintaining a balance between dependence and independence is crucial for a long-lasting relationship. It’s about enjoying your togetherness without losing your individuality.

In other words, you’re not entirely dependent on your partner for your happiness and vice versa. You both have your own lives, interests, and friends outside the relationship, and that’s perfectly okay and healthy!

In my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship, I delve into the pitfalls of codependency and how it can hinder the growth of a relationship.

But for now just know that if you and your partner can enjoy time apart without insecurity or jealousy, if you can respect each other’s personal space and not feel threatened by it, then that’s a positive sign.

5) You share core values

This one’s a bit personal for me.

When I met my husband, we had our differences, but what drew us together were our shared core values. We believe in the same fundamental things, and that’s what has kept us going strong.

Sharing core values with your partner is like having a compass that guides you in the same direction. These are the non-negotiables, the things you both deeply believe in, whether it’s honesty, kindness, family, or personal growth.

These shared values become the foundation of your relationship, guiding your decisions and actions. They assure you that no matter what challenges come your way, you both will handle them in a way that aligns with these values.

6) You’ve seen each other at your worst and still chose to stay

Let’s get real for a moment. Relationships aren’t all sunshine and roses. There will be tough times, and that’s when you’ll see each other at your worst.

Maybe it’s a personal failure, a health scare, or just a really bad day. It’s in these moments that the durability of your relationship is truly tested. If your partner has seen you at your lowest, most vulnerable point and chose to stick around, that’s a sign of a lasting bond.

True love isn’t just about cherishing the good times; it’s about standing by each other during the storms.

7) You inspire each other to be better

This is something I hold close to my heart. A lasting relationship isn’t just about loving each other as you are, it’s also about inspiring each other to be the best version of yourselves.

As the renowned poet, Maya Angelou once said, “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”

In a relationship that will go the distance, you’ll find mutual inspiration. You’ll encourage each other’s dreams, celebrate each other’s accomplishments and push each other to grow without imposing your own expectations on each other.

8) You’re willing to put in the work

I’ll be honest here. Long-lasting relationships don’t just happen. They require effort, patience, and sometimes, a lot of hard work.

It’s about being committed to each other and to the relationship, even when things get tough. It’s about choosing each other, every day, no matter what.

No relationship is perfect, and every couple faces their own set of challenges. But the ones who are willing to work through those challenges together are the ones who stand the test of time.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, every relationship is unique and comes with its own set of challenges. But if you can identify these eight signs in your relationship, you’re probably in a rare one that’s capable of going the distance.

Remember, it’s about the small things – open communication, respect for each other’s individuality, maintaining a healthy balance, constructive conflict, sharing core values, standing by each other during tough times, inspiring each other, and putting in the hard work.

If you’d like to delve deeper into creating and maintaining a healthy relationship, I encourage you to check out my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. It’s a guide that can help you navigate your love journey with more understanding and less fear.

Here’s to building relationships that last!