302. How Do You Know If You’re In a Healthy Relationship?

How do you actually know if you’re in a healthy relationship? In this episode, I’m breaking down the four pillars I believe healthy relationships are built on: responsiveness, safety, freedom, and connection. We’ll talk about what each one actually looks like, where we tend to get it wrong, and how you can start building these qualities from the very beginning of dating.I'm getting into...What it really means to feel understood and cared for by your partnerWhy validation doesn’t mean agreeing with everything your partner saysHow to tell the difference between relationship safety and simply avoiding conflictWhy calm and steadiness aren’t signs that something is missingHow independence and freedom can actually strengthen your relationshipWhy your partner shouldn’t have to be your entire support systemHow small everyday “bids for connection” build intimacy over timeWhat to look for in early dating if you want to build a healthy long-term relationshipFour questions you can ask yourself to assess the health of your relationshipPlus, I answer a Dating Dilemma from a listener wondering whether she should give a promising connection more time or whether she’s already trying too hard to manage her way into compatibility.MENTIONED:Episode 244 on building inner securityTHANKS TO OUR SPONSORS😎 Zenni: Get 15% off your first order and free shipping on orders over $65MORE FROM DATING INTENTIONALLYDate Tracker: Start your 7-day free trial! (iOS link)Take the quiz: What's holding you back in dating?Say hi on InstagramBook a 1:1 with meSubmit a dating dilemmaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.