This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada, whichclosed in 2021.
Some people go their entire lives not knowing what a healthy relationship looks like, or they may have an idea, but have not defined them for themselves. The 6 C's illustrate the various components of a healthy relationship. A good relationship cannot exist without mutual respect.
Relationship Specialist, Author and Speaker
Some people go their entire lives not knowing what a healthy relationship looks like, or they may have an idea, but have not defined them for themselves. The Six C's illustrate the various components of a healthy relationship. Please review:
Communication
Effective communication may be the key to long-term success in a relationship, and good communication takes practice. Some things to remember when striving for open communication are:
- Honesty
- Thinking before speaking
- Open-mindedness
- Active listening
- Willingness to see alternative points of view
Compromise
Compromise requires the concept of give-and-take. Whereas each individual is free to express his or her point of view, openly and equally. After which they reach a decision based on reasoning and negotiating for both parties. If you do not care enough about your partner or about the relationship to compromise, there can be no effective communication. Some things to consider when striving for compromise within a relationship:
- A willingness to reach a consensus
- Active listening by both partners
- Practice in the art of negotiation
Commitment
Commitment is more than being in an exclusive relationship. It is an integral part of a healthy relationship that involves a mutually agreed upon, and a willingness between both parties to commit.
Compatibility
While opposites sometimes attract, it may not lead to a lasting bond and may cause conflict in the relationship. One of the most important ingredients of a successful relationship is that of having something in common with your partner. Compatibility suggests that the more people have in common, the fewer opportunities there are for conflict.
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Consideration [respect]
A good relationship cannot exist without mutual respect. The word "respect" gets thrown around casually in conversation and discussions -- "disrespect," "self-respect," etc.
In the context of a relationship, proper respect has four key elements: attention, honor/esteem, valuing, and appropriate conduct.
When we respect someone we acknowledge his/her claim for our attention. It also demonstrates the love and consideration we have for the other persons needs.
Conduct
Conduct that is appropriate to mutual respect follows naturally from the elements that we have already discussed. When you honor and value the existence of the other person in your life, putting aside your selfishness to take care of your partner, and your partner does the same for you -- it follows that both of you will be happy and taken care of.
In summary, a healthy relationship is one in which:
- Individuals respect each other completely.
- Individuals give, receive and compromise in equal parts.
- Individuals value one another and allow each other to be themselves without trying to change that individual.
- Individuals support and encourage one another's goals and ambitions.
- Individuals trust each other and learn to recognize jealous or controlling feelings so that they can work through these feelings in a healthy manner.
- Individuals communicate openly and honestly, and both parties feel safe in expressing themselves.
- Individuals share responsibility in decision-making.
- Individuals encourage each other to have friends and activities outside of the relationship.
- Individuals are free to be themselves within the relationship.
Collette Gee is a Certified Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner, a Violence Prevention Specialist and a Matchmaker, and Holistic Relationship Coach that helps men and women create and sustain healthy relationship patterns and behaviors. Learn more about Collette Gee
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Collette Gee, Contributor
Relationship Specialist, Author and Speaker
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Canada.Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns,please check our FAQ orcontact support@huffpost.com.
As a Relationship Specialist, Author, and Speaker, I bring a wealth of expertise in the field of healthy relationships. With a background in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, violence prevention, and holistic relationship coaching, I've dedicated my career to helping individuals create and sustain healthy relationship patterns and behaviors. My knowledge extends beyond theories, as I've actively worked with men and women to navigate the complexities of dating, communication, and commitment.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article on HuffPost Canada about the six components that illustrate a healthy relationship:
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Communication: Effective communication is highlighted as a key factor in long-term relationship success. The article emphasizes the importance of honest and open-minded communication, active listening, and a willingness to consider alternative points of view. These aspects collectively contribute to building a foundation for healthy interaction between partners.
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Compromise: The article stresses the significance of compromise in a relationship. It goes beyond merely expressing individual points of view; it involves reaching decisions through reasoning and negotiation that benefits both parties. The willingness to compromise is presented as essential for effective communication, reinforcing the idea that caring about your partner and the relationship requires this mutual effort.
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Commitment: Commitment is portrayed as more than exclusivity; it involves a mutual agreement and willingness between partners to commit. This commitment is deemed an integral part of a healthy relationship, showcasing the importance of dedication and shared understanding between individuals.
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Compatibility: While acknowledging that opposites may attract, the article emphasizes the importance of compatibility in sustaining a lasting bond. Having common interests reduces opportunities for conflict, highlighting the significance of shared values and pursuits in a successful relationship.
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Consideration [Respect]: Mutual respect is presented as a fundamental requirement for a good relationship. The article breaks down respect into key elements: attention, honor/esteem, valuing, and appropriate conduct. It emphasizes that proper conduct naturally follows when individuals honor and value each other, creating a foundation for happiness and mutual care.
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Conduct: Conduct in the context of mutual respect is discussed as a natural outcome of honoring and valuing the other person in the relationship. It involves putting aside selfishness, taking care of one's partner, and fostering an environment where both individuals feel happy and supported.
In summary, a healthy relationship, according to the article, is characterized by mutual respect, equal give-and-take, shared values, consideration for each other's needs, and open and honest communication. It encourages individuals to support each other's goals, trust one another, and maintain a sense of individuality within the relationship. The concepts presented align with my extensive experience in fostering healthy relationship dynamics.
