Communication is an everyday encounter we have with individuals who are part of our lives. A close bond between two people relies heavily on familiarity and the ability to exhibit vulnerability amongst each other. Through endless interactions, there are characteristics which define whether the relationship is healthy or unhealthy, based on the behavior, response, and engagement in the conversation.
The simplest way to define a healthy relationship is if both parties listen and understand each other. Talk is primarily the strongest tool in any relationship, whether personal or professional, as its function could benefit and improve conversations to an ultimate extent due to openness. Expressing feelings and concerns without fear of the reaction is a positive sign to look out for, offering a new dynamic to the relationship. Mutual respect and trust come hand in hand as this means the other person’s values are acknowledged.
Negative traits are often conveyed during arguments; as superiority, loss of temper, and a controlling behavior are set forward. When aggressiveness overpowers a conversation, this may be a sign of a toxic relationship as there is no space to comfortably express your thoughts. A significant, unhealthy characteristic often unconsidered are presumptions. These are based on the knowledge we already have of the person, so walking into an argument with pre-existing opinions may result in destruction.
Sustaining healthy human relationships may seem like an unreachable goal to accomplish because of their depth and complexity. Sometimes, gaps in communication do not result in a positive outcome of exchange in ideas and thoughts due to the base of the relationship. Therefore, healthy building blocks and mutual understanding are essential, instead of jumping to conclusions.
