Understand The Importance Of Respect In A Relationship

On a theoretical level, we all agree that respect in a relationship is fundamental. In the course of our own relationships, however, we often overlook extremely harmful behaviors. 

This can go both ways. It can happen because the connection to your partner prevents you from seeing reality or that you have not stopped to think about what respect really means. In any case, one can often have either been the recipient or the one who performs actions that show a lack of respect.

We invite you to reflect and understand what this attitude means for your daily life. Remember that without respect there is no love. 

What does respect mean in a relationship?

I respect you as a human being

This is the most basic aspect that should be present in all our social interactions. It includes treating others with the respect that all people deserve. 

None of us will scream, insult or attack our colleagues or siblings. However, when some people are in a relationship, they often exhibit this behavior.

Under no circumstances does over-justification justify the use of physical or verbal violence. You should never raise your voice or humiliate another person, especially not your girlfriend.

Do not fall into the trap of normalizing these actions and writing them off as yet another part of the dynamics of the relationship. They simply lack respect! 

I respect your personality

A good relationship does not consist of two people who are the same or who need to be the same. Rather, it is about two individuals who understand and respect their differences. After being with your partner for a while, some people start trying to change their tastes, opinions and lifestyles. When they do this, they are basically showing that they do not respect the true essence of the other person. 

When you meet your partner, you fall in love with everything that makes them unique. Why would you want to change these things now? Each person has the right to their own preferences, thoughts and hobbies.

The goal of a relationship is not symbiosis. You do not have to unite and become one and the same creature. In fact, it’s much healthier to admire your partner for who they are and learn from each other.

Respect in a relationship: I respect your feelings

This is one of the aspects that most people often overlook. When you start a relationship with another person, you become responsible for taking care of their feelings. 

Each person is responsible for their own happiness and well-being. However, if you associate with others, you must learn to understand and respect their feelings.

One partner may be more sensitive, while others seem a little colder. One may tend to ask many questions, while others tend to avoid conflicts. One may be more open to dialogue, while others may need to think about things on their own. These differences can cause problems if the differences are not respected. 

Both parties should work together to find a common ground of emotion. The partner who wants to talk about the problem must respect the other person’s need to be alone after a conflict. At the same time, however, the cold and evasive partner must understand that dialogue is important.

Whatever the situation , you need to accept your partner’s way of coping and showing emotion. It is essential that you accept your partner’s feelings and try to be empathetic, even in times of crisis.

The environment as a basic element of respect in a relationship

Finally, you need to understand that anyone who tries to isolate you or separate you from people you love is isolating you. Your family and friends are an important part of your identity. Thus, your partner must respect them and your relationship with them.

You do not necessarily have to get along with your partner’s relatives, as this is sometimes beyond your control. Of course, you should do your best to do that. Furthermore, even though you may not get along very well with them, there should still be respect from both sides. 

A partner who insults and criticizes his girlfriend and tries to distance them from them is dangerous. Therefore, you should try to understand the people who are an important part of your partner’s life, and of course expect the same from them.