Adrian Volenik
It’s weird how we’re insecure about some things. The main one being is my partner, the one. In other words, will we be together forever?
And while it’s smart to ask these questions directly, many telltale signs speak volumes.
Like if they make an effort to communicate properly, be supportive, be honest and transparent, and have a shared vision for the future.
So, let’s discuss these and other examples of things your partner is willing to do if they’re in it for the long haul.
1) Be supportive in good times and bad
First of all, if your partner bails at the first sign of a bad situation or relationship issues, they’re obviously not worth it.
A partner who’s in it for the long haul is there through thick and thin. They celebrate your successes and offer encouragement and genuine happiness when things go well.
On the other side, they provide a shoulder to lean on and emotional support during tough times, showing empathy and understanding.
But they also consistently do the following.
2) Show genuine interest in your life and well-being
A lasting relationship thrives on mutual interest. Your partner should ask about your day, your thoughts, and your feelings, showing that they care about your well-being.
They’re not just in it for themselves but genuinely want to know how you’re doing and feeling.
My wife and I spend a lot of time together as we both work from home. I’m not gonna lie; sometimes it’s too much, and you can tell that on both of us.
That’s why we encourage each other to have individual interests. Naturally, we then have even more things to talk about.
Above all, we also respect each other’s personal space and boundaries.
3) Respect your personal space and boundaries
A sign of a strong relationship is when both partners respect each other’s individuality. Ideally, your partner understands and honors your need for personal space and boundaries.
They recognize that both of you are separate individuals and that these boundaries are important for a healthy connection.
For example, they don’t insist on constantly being with you and respect your need to have moments for yourself, whether it’s for relaxation, hobbies, or personal reflection.
They also don’t invade your privacy. I.e., they don’t snoop through your personal belongings, emails, or messages without your permission, showing trust and respect for your boundaries.
Those are some clear signs of a future-proof relationship.
4) Make an effort to understand and communicate
Effective communication is key in any long-term relationship or marriage. That’s why both partners should actively work on understanding each other’s perspectives and feelings.
When they’re willing to listen, express themselves honestly, and find common ground through open and respectful dialogue, that’s a sign of a great bond.
How’s your relationship in this regard? Do you really talk openly? Think about that for a moment.
5) Be willing to compromise and find solutions
In any partnership, there will inevitably be differences and disagreements. A partner committed to the long haul is ready to compromise and find solutions together rather than trying to “win” every argument.
This readiness to work through challenges and find a middle ground is crucial for a lasting bond.
From my own example, my wife and I always try to find a solution that works for both of us.
And when we need to make a big decision on something, we go over all the important points together. Only when we’re both satisfied do we make the judgment.
Next is one of the best telltale signs of a lasting relationship.
6) Share responsibilities and chores
Even in this day and age, most of the housework falls on women. However, many polls show that sharing responsibilities and household chores is important for a harmonious relationship.
That’s why your partner should be willing to help shoulder the load, recognizing that maintaining a home and life together is a joint effort.
7) Be honest and transparent
Honesty is the foundation of trust. When we can’t fully trust our significant other, how can we fully enjoy our relationship and find solace in it?
A partner who’s in it for the long run is open and transparent. They don’t keep secrets or hide important information, promoting trust and intimacy in the relationship.
A great example is when your partner willingly shares their past relationship experiences and any significant events. They discuss how these experiences helped shape them, allowing you to better understand their history.
Both partners should also openly discuss their financial situations, including income, expenses, and any debts or financial goals.
After all, working together to create a financial plan and make joint decisions about money is one of the most important things in any relationship and life in general.
8) Respect your friends and family
Part of being supportive also means respecting your social ties. That means they don’t belittle or create unnecessary conflicts with your loved ones.
A partner who doesn’t treat your friends and family with respect and courtesy isn’t one worth spending your life with.
After all, what does that say about them as a person? It paints a picture, doesn’t it?
9) Demonstrate trust and loyalty
A committed partner also trusts you and stays loyal. They don’t let jealousy or insecurity erode the trust that you’ve built together.
Arguably, this isn’t something that’s hard to do. You just need to show up consistently and be there, as I already mentioned.
Obviously, you shouldn’t flirt or cheat with others or do anything that would make your partner uncomfortable.
It’s such a low bar that I’m amazed how many people can’t consistently ensure that they’re trusting and loyal.
I guess it’s human nature to fool around and break the good bonds they have with their partners.
10) Make time for quality moments together
Another thing that shows we care about our SOs is that we make time for them.
Despite busy schedules and daily challenges, it’s essential to carve out quality time for each other.
A partner who’s in it for the long haul prioritizes your relationship and creates opportunities for meaningful moments and shared experiences.
This is as easy as watching Netflix together, going out on date nights, or traveling to other countries.
The better and bolder the adventure, the stronger bond it will build.
11) Encourage personal growth and ambitions
Because we’re still individuals, even when we’re in a relationship or marriage, it’s important that both partners grow and evolve.
Long-lasting relationships support personal growth. Your partner should, therefore, encourage your aspirations and ambitions, cheering you on as you strive for self-improvement and fulfillment.
I don’t get people who see their partner’s growth as a bad thing for the relationship. I guess they’re too insecure about the whole thing and, more importantly, about themselves.
They’re the types of people who don’t apologize and think they’re always right, too.
12) Apologize and make amends when they’re wrong
Mistakes happen in every relationship. What matters is the capacity to take responsibility and apologize sincerely.
A partner who values the long term isn’t too proud to admit when they’re wrong. They also work diligently to make things right again.
They should also show an understanding of how their actions or words affected you and express genuine regret.
But above all, they should show affection and appreciation for you.
13) Show affection and appreciation
In my articles, I always try to highlight how important it is to consistently show affection.
Whether that’s through physical gestures or verbal expressions, you should always do your best to reinforce the emotional connection between you two.
Physical affection is a tangible way to share your feelings with your partner. This includes simple things like holding hands, hugging, kissing, or cuddling.
These not only give a sense of comfort and security but are also a constant reminder of the love and emotional bond between you and your partner.
And if you do things like make them breakfast in bed, help with chores, or take on responsibilities to ease their burden, you show you’re happy to invest time and effort in making their life easier and happier.
14) Have a shared vision for the future
Ultimately, to be in it for the long haul, you and your partner should have a shared vision for the future.
Shared goals, dreams, and an understanding of where you see the relationship going in the long term are essential.
You prove that you’re building a life together with a common purpose and direction.
Final thoughts
Now tell me, how many of these signs do you see in your partner? And how about in yourself?
A strong and lasting relationship is built on a combination of these qualities and a deep emotional connection.
It really is a journey that you undertake together, and the effort you put into it directly correlates to a fulfilling and enduring life and love.
