7 signs you have a really strong relationship (even if it doesn’t always seem like it)

Every relationship has its ups and downs—moments where you’re laughing so hard you cry, and moments where you wonder if you’re even on the same page.

It’s easy to get caught up in the rough patches and start questioning whether your relationship is as strong as it could be.

As a relationship expert and the founder of Love Connection blog, I’m here to tell you that strength in a relationship doesn’t always look perfect. Sometimes, it’s hidden in the little things that aren’t always obvious but make a big difference.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your relationship is solid despite the occasional bumps in the road, you’re not alone.

The truth is, even strong relationships have their share of disagreements and imperfections. What matters most is how you navigate them together.

Let’s take a look at some signs that your bond is stronger than you might think.

1) Honest communication

Let’s cut to the chase—if you can’t talk openly in a relationship, what’s the point?

Honest communication isn’t just about sharing your thoughts; it’s about knowing you can say what’s on your mind without it turning into a full-blown drama fest.

Whether it’s admitting you forgot their favorite dessert at the store or diving into deeper topics like future plans, keeping it real builds trust and keeps misunderstandings from piling up like dirty dishes.

And no, honest communication doesn’t mean unloading every unfiltered thought that crosses your brain. It’s about being straightforward but also kind.

For instance, saying, “Hey, I feel like we’ve been a little distant lately—what’s going on?” works a lot better than passive-aggressively sighing until they figure it out (hint: they won’t).

At the end of the day, being honest creates a safe space where you both feel seen and heard. Sure, it might mean having some uncomfortable conversations, but those are way better than tiptoeing around issues until they explode.

The real win? Knowing you can tackle anything together because you’ve got that solid foundation of trust and openness.

2) Unwavering support

There’s a quote by the legendary Oprah Winfrey that I absolutely adore. She said, “Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.”

And this couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to relationships.

In a strong relationship, your partner is your biggest cheerleader. They stand by your side through thick and thin, cheering you on when you’re soaring high and lifting you up when you’re feeling low.

I remember when I was just starting the Love Connection blog. It was tough, with many naysayers questioning its potential.

But my partner? He believed in me and my vision relentlessly. His unwavering support fueled my resolve to make Love Connection what it is today.

So, if your partner sticks by your side, supporting your dreams and standing by you during tough times – even if they don’t completely understand what you’re going through – that’s a sign of a truly strong relationship.

3) Independence and interdependence

Here’s the sweet spot in any strong relationship: striking the balance between I’ve got this and We’ve got this.

Independence means you each have your own lives—your own hobbies, friends, and that TV show you secretly binge without waiting for them.

It’s what keeps you from feeling smothered or losing sight of who you are as an individual.

Nobody wants to become the couple that’s so joined at the hip they forget what life was like before each other.

But let’s not forget the magic of interdependence. This is where the we part of the equation kicks in.

It’s not about leaning on each other 24/7 but knowing that you can rely on your partner when you need them. Maybe you’re awesome at handling work stress on your own, but when your car breaks down on the freeway, they’re the first person you call.

Interdependence is what makes the relationship feel like a partnership rather than two people just coexisting.

The trick is keeping both in check. Independence reminds you that your happiness doesn’t depend on someone else, while interdependence gives you the comfort of knowing you’re not in this alone.

Together, they create that perfect give-and-take dynamic, like a well-balanced seesaw—just without the playground drama.

I talk about this extensively in my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. It’s crucial to understand that while you are a part of a pair, you are also an individual with your own interests, dreams, and goals.

4) Healthy disagreements

Now, this might seem a little counterintuitive, but hang in there with me – disagreements can actually be a sign of a strong relationship.

Yes, you read that right. Disagreements.

See, in a strong relationship, both partners feel safe enough to express their opinions and feelings, even if they differ from each other’s. It’s not about agreeing on everything but about respecting each other’s viewpoints.

Disagreements provide an opportunity to learn more about each other and grow together. It’s through these differences that we often understand our partner’s perspective better.

So remember, if you have healthy disagreements where both of you feel heard and respected – even if it doesn’t always seem like it – that’s a sign of a truly strong relationship.

5) Shared laughter

If you and your partner can laugh together, you’re already building a solid foundation for your relationship.

Research shows that the more couples laugh together, the better they view their relationship in terms of quality, closeness, and support. This suggests shared laughter could be an indicator of a strong and happy relationship.

Shared laughter isn’t just about telling jokes or having the same sense of humor; it’s about finding joy in the everyday moments.

Maybe it’s an inside joke from a long-forgotten conversation or a silly habit you’ve both grown to love.

Those lighthearted moments create a sense of closeness that words alone can’t always capture.

Laughter is especially helpful when things get a little tense. It doesn’t mean you should joke your way out of serious conversations, but sometimes, a well-timed laugh can take the edge off and remind you both that you’re on the same team.

At its core, shared laughter is about connection. It reminds you that even in the ups and downs, you genuinely enjoy each other’s company.

Those small moments of humor can be the glue that keeps your relationship strong and lighthearted.

6) Vulnerability

Vulnerability can feel a little scary, but it’s one of the cornerstones of a strong relationship.

Letting someone see the parts of you that aren’t polished or perfect takes courage, but it’s also how real connection happens.

When you’re open about your fears, dreams, or even the things you struggle with, you’re giving your partner the chance to truly understand you—and to show up for you in meaningful ways.

Of course, being vulnerable isn’t about oversharing every thought or emotion all at once.

It’s about creating a safe space where you both feel comfortable opening up at your own pace. It’s what helps you move past surface-level interactions and into something deeper.

And here’s the thing: vulnerability goes both ways. When you’re willing to be open, it encourages your partner to do the same.

Over time, this exchange creates a bond that feels authentic and unshakable. 

So, if you’re in a relationship where you feel safe to be vulnerable, where you can show your true self without fear of judgment – that’s a sign of a strong relationship.

It might not always seem like it, but being able to be raw and honest with each other is a testament to the strength of your bond.

7) Unconditional love

Lastly, let me ask you a question—do you love each other unconditionally? 

Unconditional love doesn’t mean ignoring flaws or pretending everything is perfect.

It means loving each other even when things aren’t ideal, when life gets messy, or when your partner is having one of those days where they’re just not their best self.

It’s about saying, “I see all of you—the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between—and I’m still here.”

This kind of love is a hallmark of a strong relationship. When you and your partner love each other without conditions, it creates a foundation of trust and security.

You’re not worrying about being “good enough” or keeping up appearances because you know that, at the core, your love for each other is solid.

That kind of reassurance allows both of you to show up authentically, without fear of judgment.

Conclusion

A strong relationship isn’t about being perfect—it’s about how you handle the imperfections together.

If you recognize these signs in your own relationship, take a moment to appreciate the bond you’ve built and the work you’ve put into it.

And if there are areas where you’d like to grow, remember that every relationship is a journey, not a destination.

If you want to dive deeper into understanding and nurturing your relationship, I invite you to read my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. It’s full of insights and practical advice to help you navigate your love journey.

Remember, as long as there’s love, respect, and understanding, your relationship has all the strength it needs. Here’s to love that grows stronger every day!