If you’re in a relationship, you know it can be challenging to determine whether it’s worth saving. There are arguments, differences of opinion, and issues that stem from insecurity that can make it hard to know if you’re on the right track.
But if you can identify some common signs, it may be easier to know when your relationship is headed down the wrong path and when it’s time to move on.
1. You Feel Aligned
One of the best signs that your relationship is worth saving is that you feel aligned in it. This means that you are living and loving in the same direction as your partner.
You might think it’s just a matter of personal preference, but in truth, alignment is incredibly important to long-term happiness and fulfillment.
When you don’t feel aligned with your partner, it can easily lead to a toxic relationship. It’s vital that you work on your values and visions with your partner before entering into a long-term commitment.
2. You Have a Great Time Together
Spending time together is a must for couples and fostering closeness can make all the difference in the long run. A great way to do this is to find common goals or interests and then work towards accomplishing them.
In the sexyest of ways, this could mean taking a walk in the park or a lightening quick dinner date. Alternatively, it could mean engaging in some serious family fun. Whether it’s a family game night, or just the two of you making special after-school snacks or a dinner recipe that your kids are sure to enjoy, finding fun activities that all of you can get into can go a long way toward improving your relationship.
3. You Have a Strong Commitment
A strong commitment in your relationship means that you are willing to put time, energy, and thought into it. This is important because it gives you the strength to keep going when things are hard.
You have a strong commitment in your relationship if you feel that you would never break up with them despite all the problems and arguments. This commitment also shows that you are willing to work with them and try to make it a better place.
4. You Are Able to Work Together
When you are in a relationship, it is important to have people who understand your individual needs and interests. This is especially true if you are planning to have children together in the future.
It is also a good idea to ensure you are working closely with your partner on your daily tasks and projects. This will make sure you are on the same page, and that any challenges can be addressed quickly and efficiently.
When you are working as a team, you will also be able to accomplish more than you could on your own. This can include collaborating on projects, brainstorming solutions, and even communicating with each other remotely.
6. You Share the Same Values
Every relationship is different, and some values may not be as important to you as they are to your partner. But if you and your partner share the same core beliefs about life, it can make everything from the way you choose to spend your money to how you raise your children easier to figure out.
According to Erika Ettin, dating coach and founder of A Little Nudge, shared values can be a huge factor in determining whether or not a relationship is worth saving. She points to religion, family and financial security as examples of values that can make a significant difference in relationships.
7. You Have Common Goals
One of the key things that make relationships strong is that you both have common goals. Having shared dreams and ambitions for your future helps you feel more connected, says relationship coach Jennifer Veasley.
Having these shared goals will also help you to avoid conflicts in the future, she says.
This can include plans for children, marriage or a home of your own. However, it’s also important to discuss any major life changes that may happen.
