Relationships are a fundamental part of our lives. They help us feel connected and supported, giving our lives meaning and adding to our overall sense of wellbeing. Although everyone’s relationship needs are different, research shows that strong relationships can add years to your life and improve your ability to handle stress and depression.
People can have a variety of relationships in their lives, both romantic and nonromantic. The word “relationship” is used so often that it’s easy to assume that there is a universal definition, but this is not the case. Having a positive relationship can mean having someone who cheers you on when you’re pursuing your goals or having a close friend with whom you share similar interests and values.
A thriving relationship can also include activities that both partners enjoy together such as a weekly movie night or having an ongoing book club. While it is important to have shared passions, each partner should also have something that’s their own. It could be running a marathon or playing poker with friends, but it’s important that their passions are still supported and respected.
The term relationship can also be used to describe the association between two parties, such as a landlord-tenant relationship or an employer-employee relationship. It’s also sometimes used to refer to a formal commitment between two people such as marriage or a civil union. A civil union is a legally recognized partnership that provides state-level benefits and protections but doesn’t offer the same federal benefits as a marriage does.