Though you are tickled to be dating your charming man, is your relationship a healthy one? In case you don't already have friends or family clueing you in about your relationship being unhealthy, here are 12 signs it's a healthy one.
1. You're still you
It's always good to explore interests that you may not have liked before, but if you are unhappily ditching heels for cowboy boots and country tunes just to fit your man's idea of a perfect woman, try again. You should be able to be yourself in all situations.
2. You can talk for hours
Communication shouldn't be an issue in a healthy relationship. Whether it's a deep discussion about philosophy or a lighthearted chat about the latest music video, talking shouldn't be a problem.
3. He's known by your friends, family and coworkers
There's no need to hide who you spent your time with on the weekends. You are proud and always thrilled to talk about the man in your life. Your friends know all about him, as does your family, people at work and the woman who bags your veggies at the corner market.
4. Things are honest
A healthy relationship should be honest and open. If you find yourself hiding information or lying to your man, you may need to question how functional your relationship really is. Being honest goes both ways; if he seems to be lying or deceitful, that is something to be concerned about.
5. You are happy together and apart
Of course you want to spend time together, but your relationship is also strong when you are apart. Even in the most happy and healthy relationships, you still need "me time." When you aren't together, you should be able to trust him and know he's thinking of you as well.
6. It's a judge-free zone
He loves you when you are cranky, hungry, didn't do your hair and when you sing off-key. Your relationship is based on who you are, not what you look like. And there is no judging when you eat peanut butter right out of the jar for a midnight snack.
7. He loves showing you off
Just like how you can't hide him from your friends, all of his pals know exactly who their friend is spending his time with. There aren't awkward introductions when you are around, but a proud proclamation of exactly who you are in his life.
8. There is mutual respect
Naturally you aren't going to agree on everything, but there is a healthy dose of respect for things you don't agree on (even though you knowyou have better taste in music than he does).
9. New adventures are a must
It's wonderful to have somebody try new things with. A bit of adventure is very healthy in a relationship — life is one big adventure that doesn't come with instructions. Being stuck in the same old routine and pattern can quickly turn a relationship stale and repetitive.
10. There's push and pull
There should be both give and take in a balanced and healthy relationship. If he's dominating, controlling or bossy, take a minute to rethink things. And while it's OK to argue a little, if you seem to always be arguing about something, things may not be as functional as you think.
11. He makes you better
Don't be with someone who brings out the worst in you. He should bring out your best, and make you want to be a better person. You should also sincerely want and encourage him to achieve his full potential.
12. You share common values
It's good to have some differences in a relationship, but there should be common core values. When you both share similar values, you are both working toward similar goals in life. Choose someone with a similar foundation who will want to help you reach your goals, not pull you away from them.
