Liv Walde
Sometimes, love isn’t about grand gestures or epic moments (although let’s admit – we appreciate them!)
Instead, it’s about the subtle clues that tell us we’re on the right track.
But how do we know for sure, especially when relationship anxiety sets in and we doubt whether this is the right person for us?
The 12 signs below are indicative that your relationship is heading in the right direction, even if it doesn’t always feel like it.
And after reading them, you might just discover that your love story is unfolding exactly as it should.
1) You’re comfortable with silence
Too much silence isn’t a good sign, but just the right amount (think Goldilocks and the bears style) is such a green flag.
If you can sit in a non-awkward shared silence, perhaps partaking in your own hobbies separately yet in the same space, and feel comfortable doing so – you’ve met a great match.
This means you’re both content enough in each other’s company that you don’t feel the need to fill every moment with chatter, just to avoid the silence.
You’re comfortable just being together and enjoy each other’s presence – and that’s something very special.
2) You share mutual respect
This may seem like a given, but you’d be surprised how many relationships lack this absolutely crucial element.
If you and your partner respect each other’s thoughts, feelings, and individuality, you’re on the right track.
This means you value each other as people, not just as partners.
You respect each other’s boundaries, such as space, possessions, and feelings – and understand that you’re two separate individuals with your own unique experiences and perspectives.
So no hammering the other down when you disagree over what brand of olives is best. Or whether cats are better than dogs.
This kind of loving mutual respect is a strong indicator that your relationship is heading in the right direction, even if it seems like a given.
3) You argue… but in a healthy way
Arguing can actually be a good sign in a relationship, when executed correctly and resolved properly.
Now, I’m not talking about constant bickering or harmful, hurtful fights where you tear at the other person’s jugular.
I’m referring to constructive disagreements where both of you express your feelings, listen to each other, and work towards a solution.
Sure, getting to this stage of healthy communication and conflict resolution takes time as you learn about your partner and how they best operate.
However, once you can disagree but make up without any breakdowns, this means you’re not afraid of conflict and are willing to tackle issues head-on – crucial for any successful relationship.
So don’t be alarmed if you and your partner have disagreements; it actually shows you’re both invested enough to work through the tough stuff and have no qualms about bringing up potentially controversial topics.
4) Your partner supports your goals
If your partner is cheering you on and supporting your every aspiration, this is good news for you.
This means they respect your individuality and want to see you succeed.
Whether it’s a career goal, wanting to run 5km, or a personal development quest, your partner being by your side and encouraging you shows they truly care about your happiness and growth.
With this level of support and encouragement, you not only get encouraged and emboldened, but can actually grow together.
5) You trust each other completely
If you and your partner trust each other wholly, it shows that you have built a solid foundation.
And trusting completely means you don’t constantly worry about what they’re doing when you’re not around, nor do you feel the need to invade their privacy.
You know in your heart that they’ll be there for you, and vice versa.
Don’t be alarmed if you’re not here yet.
This level of trust takes time and effort to build, but once it’s there, it’s an undeniable sign that your relationship is on the right path.
6) You can laugh together
Laughter really is the best medicine, and it’s also a sign of a healthy relationship.
If you and your partner can share a good laugh, it shows that you have a strong connection.
You might not have the exact same sense of humor, but brightening up each other’s days with moments of joy and lightness will strengthen your bond so ardently.
And whether it’s laughing at a silly joke, a funny movie, or even each other’s quirks, shared laughter is a sign of mutual understanding and a shared sense of humor – key to any successful relationship.
7) You feel safe and secure
One of the most beautiful aspects of a good relationship is the sense of safety and security it brings.
If you feel completely safe and like you’re at home – physically, emotionally, and mentally – when you’re with your partner, it’s a telltale sign that you’re heading in the right direction.
This feeling of security allows you to be vulnerable and open about all thoughts and feelings, without fear of judgment or rejection.
It’s also about knowing that you have someone who will stand by your side, no matter what life throws at you.
8) You’re not afraid to show your flaws
Nobody’s perfect.
But in the initial stages of relationships, many of us try to pretend we are.
However, if you’re in a relationship where you feel comfortable enough to show your imperfections, that’s a big deal.
It means you’re not putting on a facade, or attempting to be someone you’re not.
You’re simply being you, all flaws and imperfections and everything that makes you gloriously individual.
And if your partner loves and accepts you for who you are, flaws included, it’s a sign that your relationship is based on genuine love and acceptance.
It shows your partner values the real you and not some idealized version of who they want you to be.
9) You share common values
While it’s completely okay and normal to have different interests or hobbies, sharing certain core values is crucial in a relationship.
If you and your partner hold similar views on key aspects of life, like morals, ethics, or life goals, it’s a good sign that your relationship is heading in the right direction.
And not to contradict the earlier point about disagreeing – as that too is permitted – but these shared values bring you back together whenever things do go slightly amiss.
So, if you find yourself nodding in agreement more often than not during deep discussions, you’re likely on the right track.
10) You communicate openly
Open communication is the lifeline of a successful relationship. I hardly have to tell you that now, do I?
If you and your partner can talk about anything under the sun and stars – your fears, hopes, dreams, and even your insecurities – without fear of judgment, it’s looking hella good for you!
It shows you’re comfortable enough to bare your souls to each other and get funky, and that’s a level of intimacy that goes far beyond the physical.
This kind of raw honesty fosters trust and understanding; two key ingredients for a healthy relationship.
11) You both make sacrifices
Being in a relationship often means putting someone else’s needs before your own.
And if you and your partner are willing to make sacrifices for each other’s happiness, it shows a deep level of love and commitment.
Now, this doesn’t always mean you giving. Nor them giving. It’s a give-take balance.
And it could be as simple as choosing a movie you know they’ll love (although you hate Mean Girls), or as significant as moving cities for their job (if it also sort of works with your life plan).
The key here is always in the balance – if there’s mutual give-and-take, then you’re definitely headed in the right direction.
12) The thought of a future together excites you
Finally, close your eyes and picture your future with this person: if the thought of spending your future with your partner fills you with joy rather than dread, that’s the ultimate sign.
It means you see them as part of your life in the long run, not just a fleeting presence.
The ability to envision a shared future and actually be excited to see where it takes you is crucial to any successful relationship, and is a clear sign that yours is heading in the right direction.
So if you find yourself daydreaming about growing old and whiskery together, take it as a positive sign.
Your relationship might just be exactly where it needs to be, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
