The amount of happiness in someone’s life has a lot to do with the relationships they maintain. As Helen Keller would quote, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” The experiences and connections with friends and family should make a person feel motivated, encouraged and want to share the positive energy with more people.
Who do you go to for support? Who do you call that you can trust? People we choose to surround ourselves with ultimately have an effect on our attitude and pleasure. Trust, respect, open communication … what comes to your mind when you think of a healthy relationship?

According to www.loveisrespect.org, the following are guidelines that apply to a partner or friendship:

Speak Up. In a healthy relationship, if something is bothering you, it’s best to talk about it instead of holding it in.

Respect Your Partner. Your partner’s wishes and feelings have value. Let your significant other know you are making an effort to keep that person’s ideas in mind. Mutual respect is essential in maintaining healthy relationships.

Compromise. Disagreements are a natural part of healthy relationships, but it’s important that you find a way to compromise if you disagree on something. Try to solve conflicts in a fair and rational way.

Be Supportive. Offer reassurance and encouragement to your partner. Also, let your partner know when you need that person’s support. Healthy relationships are about building each other up, not putting each other down.

Respect Each Other’s Privacy. Just because you’re in a relationship, doesn’t mean you have to share everything and constantly be together. Healthy relationships require space.

If  you feel your boundaries are being stepped on or your relationship is becoming unhealthy, please consider the following:

Understand that a person can only change if they want to. You can’t force people to alter their behavior if they don’t believe they’re wrong.

Focus on your own needs. Are you taking care of yourself? Your wellness is always important. Watch your stress levels, take time to be with friends, get enough sleep. If you find that your relationship is draining you, consider ending it.

Connect with your support systems. Often, abusers try to isolate their partners. Talk to your friends, family members, teachers and others to make sure you’re getting the emotional support you need.  See loveisrespect.org, call 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522.

Think about breaking up. Remember that you deserve to feel safe and accepted in your relationship.

Keeping a balanced life is something a healthy person strives for, and friends, family and the community around them form a significant section of the circle. The environment a person was raised in can have a major influence on how and why a relationship is chosen but, if you are not satisfied, cycles can be broken. Re-evaluating the relationships in your life is definitely a smart decision to make. Everyone has had to end or distance themselves away from a relationship at some point; however, the strength acquired and realization of what is healthy and what is not healthy are extremely valuable to a person’s future. Solid relationships are based off respect and if respect exists, all the other healthy components will come together.
Think healthy. Make healthy friendships.