A healthy relationship is like cooking. Don’t believe me? Picture this: You are making Chicken Parmesan. The three base ingredients to make this classic dish are chicken, parmesan cheese, and tomato sauce. If you try to substitute chicken for salmon or tomato sauce for salsa, you won’t get the dish you were looking to make. In your relationship, just like in cooking this amazing dish, if you try to substitute trust, commitment, or vulnerability for anything else, your relationship will not turn out as strong as you hoped it would be. Here at Official, we are all about making sure that your relationship is as strong as it can be, and that means using the right ingredients.

Relationship’s Ingredients

Here are the three base ingredients that you and your partner need to remain happy and healthy:

Trust

The first ingredient for a strong relationship is trust. According to the Psych Central blog, “trust allows a couple to know that their partner is there for them, truly cares about them, is coming from a good place, and supports them.”  If there is no trust within the union, then there is no need for the relationship to continue. Both partners want to feel heard and safe. If this is not happening, you may need to evaluate your relationship together to figure out why there is a lack of trust. It is best to talk things out with your partner when things are fresh. If the conversation gets heated, don’t be afraid to take a breather. Whatever you choose, remember, don’t go to bed angry.

Commitment

The second ingredient for a strong relationship is commitment. When you are dedicated to your partner, you are saying, “we’re in this together, no matter what.” To keep the commitment going long term, you and your partner can plan times to gain a better understanding of one another. This can include, going on dates and planning activities that you haven’t done with anyone else. If you need help with planning, slide over to the Official app to get date ideas, and don’t forget to share your experience.

Vulnerability

The third and final ingredient for a strong relationship is vulnerability. “Being vulnerable includes sharing your feelings, not your thoughts.” Personally, this is one that I struggle with in my own relationship. Being vulnerable can be challenging for some, but it is important to share feelings to eliminate any miscommunication that could result when you leave your partner guessing how you are feeling. Try your best to be open and transparent with your partner as much as possible. Of course, there is always time for fun and games, but be sure to give the same amount of energy when the conversation becomes more serious. If you’re not willing to be vulnerable, then your partner will have a hard time trusting you. Remember, trust is the number one ingredient.

Building a strong relationship is not as hard as it seems. As long as you follow these steps, you and your partner will be on your way to not only becoming a stronger couple, but you will also remain official.