Recipe for a Healthy Relationship
Myths About the Perfect Romantic Relationship
Many people have expectations of relationships that are unrealistic. Here are common myths about what love means:
- You should always be able to anticipate my thoughts, feelings and needs
- You should always make me happy
- Never having to be angry or upset with each other
- Always wanting to be together
- You will always respect, understand and accept me no matter what I might do
- Our level of affection and commitment must never decline
- We must always be in agreement with one another
- You will fulfill all my dreams
Relationship Rights
I have the right to:
- Be treated with dignity and respect
- Say no and set limits
- Have my own beliefs, values, & opinions
- Feel safe
- Be myself
- Make mistakes
- Experience and respectfully express my feelings
- Feel good about myself
- Leave the relationship if it is not working
Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship
- Lack of respect
- Being held back
- Controlling behavior: There is no excuse for abuse
- Getting blamed for your partner’s problems
- Feeling jealous most of the time
- Trying to change the other person’s behavior
- Needing constant contact from your partner (excessive texting, demanding responses immediately)
Healthy Relationships Consist of the Following:
- Importance of respect, honesty, and trust
- Expression of care and affection
- Do not forget to have fun (Allow space to have a good time together AND a good time with others separate from one another. It is okay to have friends outside of the relationship).
- Individual identities are maintained
- Genuinely want each other to be happy & succeed
- Differences are respected; conflicts are resolved respectfully
- Minimal drama!
- Reciprocal – both people give & receive support