Two of the most important qualities in healthy, long-lasting relationships are communication and vulnerability.
Communication involves both <em>transparency to talk about anything which praises or challenges the relationship</em> as well as <em>close attention to listen and internalize feedback</em>. Open, judgement-free communication allows people to feel meaningful and respected as it promotes personal growth through good disposition to let feedback shape us. Therefore, a sense of stability is created which encourages preference for one such relationship over many others lacking these essential elements.
Vulnerability is the act of <em>allowing others to see our true self, (weaknesses, fears and needs included)</em> as well as that of <em>opening trust channels to let others show us theirs</em>. Vulnerability allows people to feel a deeper level of emotional involvement which increases positive attachment in any relationship. It is not easy to accomplish given our drive for self-preservation which naturally avoids potential emotional pain after a let down. However, only by incresingly putting our guard down and creating healthy spaces for others to put down theirs can we assure a relationship to stand the test of time.
Communication and vulnerability contribute to healthy, long lasting relationships.
