Love and relationship

Respect and appreciation

Many people are afraid of beginning a relationship. Some people are convinced that they will lose themselves or that their freedom will be threatened. There may be the fear of not being able to enjoy all aspects of life and making their own choices anymore. But, research has shown, that having a relationship can have a very positive effect on the feeling of self-esteem and the general mental and emotional balance. Entering into, and maintaining a relationship implies, that a form of effort is required. Whether it concerns an early, a long-lasting or a long-distance relationship; a choice for each other is intended to be a source of support and strengthening of the personality and inner well-being. The core of a relationship should always be mutually respectful and appreciative. Having someone on our side, loving us as we are and accepting and acknowledging our weaknesses and qualities, leads to an improvement of our confidence. In that sense, the setting is optimized for working together and developing and improving the relationship.

Recognizing weaknesses

Relationships can help us to recognize and work on our weaknesses. We may even be able to further explore and develop unknown qualities. If we spend our time together in a constructive way, we can help each other to identify our weaknesses. In addition, being open about personal values, qualities and preferences, can open the door to activities that we did not know and in which we can distinguish ourselves. Having a relationship also gives us a sense of security; if we know that there is someone who appreciates us as we are and who finds us attractive, we will be more aware of these qualities and have more confidence in ourselves. In a harmonious relationship, there is a willingness to improve the relationship and to take a look at disruptive or destructive behavior.

Balance

All these advantages are present, if the relationship is balanced and both partners respect and value each other. If lovers and partners share a healthy sense of self-esteem and if they are emotionally well balanced, there's no negative impact on the personalities, on the contrary; their being together will strengthen both partners. Relationships in which jealousy is involved, are usually not long lived. Even when one person tries to subdue the other, this is usually caused by previous self-esteem problems. Someone with a low self-esteem can quickly adopt a subservient attitude. Claiming, controlling and dominant behavior often stems from the fear of losing one's partner. Fortunately, these relationships are not the general norm and usually do not last long. The goal is to find someone who will complement and enrich you and who will make you feel good about yourself, simply because you enjoy being together.