10 Relationship Non-Negotiables Every Couple Should Be Aware Of

Relationships are all about compromise, right? Whether you’re deciding where to eat dinner or whose family you’ll visit for Christmas, there are plenty of times when you and your partner are forced to find a middle ground.

That said, there are certain areas of your relationship that shouldn’t be up for debate — also known as non-negotiables. These are things that are rooted in your core values that you shouldn’t budge on (and for good reason).

Here are relationship 10 non-negotiables every couple should be aware of:

1. No Excessive Jealousy

It’s normal to feel jealous every now and then (and it can even be a little flattering). But when jealousy gets out of control, it’s an indication that there are bigger issues at play.

If you’re struggling with severe trust issues, they should be worked out internally before starting a romantic relationship. Otherwise, the incessant jealousy will eventually take a toll, making it impossible to maintain a healthy relationship.

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2. Passion For Your Own Interests

While focusing on your relationship is important, so is taking time to pursue your own interests. Otherwise, you can become too dependent on each other, which is detrimental in the long run.

A healthy amount of space between you and your partner should be non-negotiable! The key is to give yourselves enough time to focus on your own hobbies, interests, goals, and careers outside of your romantic relationship without drifting too far apart. Schedule some “me-time” as often as you need to work on personal growth. Prioritizing self-care benefits both you and the health of your relationship.

3. Mutual Respect

Respect is arguably the most important part of your relationship’s foundation. Respect means you have a deep admiration for someone’s qualities, abilities, and achievements. While love is a feeling of affection toward someone, respect is an admiration for them based on who they are as a person.

Mutual respect allows both partners to feel valued, encouraged, and safe. You’re kind and considerate toward each other, appreciate your differences, and accept each other for who you are. Without respect, the relationship cannot survive.

4. Support

Along with communication, trust, and respect, support is another critical component of healthy romantic relationships. You and your partner should be supporting each other through good times and bad, ensuring that you will be there for each other no matter what.

If you feel like your partner is not supportive of your needs, personal goals, career, or anything else that is important to you, it might be time for a serious discussion. Support from your partner should definitely be non-negotiable!

5. Honesty

Lying might be common in romantic relationships, but that doesn’t make it right! Even the smallest lies can snowball, leading to a break in trust and, ultimately, a breakdown of the relationship.

Honesty is non-negotiable for the most obvious reason: If you can’t trust each other, you can’t have a healthy, satisfying relationship. Open, honest communication is key! Check in frequently with each other to make sure you’re both happy and on the same page. Sharpen your communication skills and address lies as they come up.

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6. Accepting (and Appreciating) Differences

You and your partner are two different people — it’s only natural to have differences in your relationship. Instead of dismissing them, embrace them!

Unless your differences are so polar opposite that you can’t get along, the best thing you can do is learn to appreciate each other for who you are. No matter how different you are, the key is to have a shared vision of your future together. As long as you’re on the same page about your expectations, needs, and commitment, you can make it work.

7. A Sense of Humor

You don’t have to be stand-up-comic-level funny, but a sense of humor is a necessity in romantic relationships. You have to be able to laugh at yourselves, right?

Research shows that laughing at yourself is actually good for your mental health! Laughter creates happier, more resilient people, which is incredibly beneficial for your relationship. (Not to mention, a relationship without humor isn’t very fun.)

8. Family Relationships

If your partner doesn’t get along with your family, the tension makes for awkward gatherings. Every situation is different, of course, but if your partner’s relationship with your family is causing serious problems or stress, it’s worth reevaluating your relationship.

9. Shared Goals for the Future

You don’t have to plan out every single detail of your future together, but a general idea of where you want the relationship to go is essential. Do you see yourselves getting married? Having kids? Traveling the world?

If you’re on two completely different pages about your future as a couple, it’s important to have an honest conversation about how you can work it out — or if it’s time to go your separate ways.

10. Having an Open Mind

When you’re dating someone close-minded or stubborn in their ways, you’ll end up arguing all the time. It’s exhausting! People and relationships can change over time, and you need to be willing to adapt to any new challenges that come your way.

Most importantly, you need to be able to learn from each other and your mistakes in order to grow as a couple.

Determining your non-negotiables before starting a new relationship can save you a lot of heartache in the long run. While compromise is important, staying true to the things that matter is the best way to ensure the happy, healthy relationship you deserve.

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