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Healthy Relationship Role Models
Figuring out what makes a healthy relationship isn't always as simple as it may seem. Whether you're feeling a bit lost in your first relationship, or confused after previous relationships didn't go to plan, you're not alone! Being in love is an amazing feeling and one that should be enjoyed, but sometimes it can blur our boundaries or fog our judgements a bit. It's important to find that balance of feeling loved by someone else, whilst still having space to make sure you're loving yourself too 💖
But what does a healthy relationship actually look like? There are no perfect relationships, and most will have their ups and downs, compromises and disagreements. But here are some key aspects that are part of the foundation for all healthy relationships.
💗 Safety
🙌 Respect
✨ Honesty
🤗 Care
💬 Open Communication
🤓 Authenticity
🌈 Freedom
😍 Fun!
With these in mind, who are some couples you've seen in TV shows, movies, social media or in your own life that have shown they are in a healthy relationship? If it's difficult to think of one that is healthy all the time (most media tends to focus on the drama and more unhealthy parts of relationships!) is there a specific moment or scene that you think shows one or more of the above really well? We'd love to see your examples in the comments below! GIFs also encouraged!
Here are a few examples to get you started :
Nick & Charlie (Heartstopper) 💙
Shrek & Fiona (Shrek) 💚
Carl & Ellie (Up) 💜
(If you'd like to learn more about how to build a healthy relationship, have a read here. And if you are worried that your relationship is showing signs of being unhealthy, you can find support at 1800RESPECT 💗)
Comments
I agree, I would have to say Shrek and Fiona and Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds too haha. I like how both couples know how to have fun and are always up for a laugh. I also like how Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds always troll each other in person and online, pretty funny haha
They are so funny online aren't they @Blueberry_Kudu 😂 It's so important that amongst the more serious stuff, you still have fun in a relationship too ❤️
I would say Eleanor and Chidi from The Good Place. Definitely not a traditional relationship given there were multiple different timelines and time got reset a lot 😂. But throughout both their friendships and relationships the became better people because of each other. And ultimately, they were able to do the thing they never though they could do. On a side note, I definitely recommend the show.
I love The Good Place too @Lapis_Anteater - I think it's time for me to have a re-watch actually!
Eleanor and Chidi are so great, and I think with all the different timelines probably get to show so many different aspects of their relationship we might not usually see! I love that they seem like complete opposites, but like you say, are able to learn from each other and grow into happier people 🥰
Is there anything from the list of healthy relationship basics that you think was a big part of them growing as people and a couple? (I think there's probably quite a few for Eleanor 😂)
Hi @Lapis_Anteater!
I absolutely adore The Good Place, it is one of my favourite shows and I definitely agree with you! I think they really encouraged each other to grow during every step of the way and I think they really showed genuine support for each other even when it was difficult for them to do. I do think those are important components to have in a healthy relationship as well and they really showed that throughout the seasons☺️
Totally agree @Banana_Lemur 😊
A really great example of them accepting each other's authentic selves, but also both being open to growing as people together too 🙌
Do you have a favourite scene with them in it?
@Iona_RO Right?? Such a good example of being authentically themselves and still loving and supporting each other.
I think my favorite scene might be the saddest last scene, where they are being so vulnerable about how they are feeling about leaving each other and being there for each other during such a difficult moment. It's such a beautiful moment. (Don't want to spoil for those who haven't watched out there😅)!
What about yours? 😊
I have to agree @Banana_Lemur - that last scene got me good! 😭❤️ A big yes to feeling safe in a relationship so you can be vulnerable, share your feelings and work through the tough stuff together 👏
Ahhh that scene is a masterpiece!!! I know quite of people weren't happy with it but it was so meaningful and heartfelt. Definitely a good culmination of their relationship.
Hi @Iona_RO,
I would have to say my greatest role model for healthy relationships have to be Dr K and Mrs K from HealthyGamer. Dr K is a psychiatrist in the US who makes wonderful content for teenagers and young adults about various aspects of our lives, including romantic relationships.
He and his wife occasionally do Q&As together which I believe give hope and inspiration, and set realistic expectations and attitudes towards the topic.
Here is a short clip of them that I found to be wonderful!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nE787tZD45o
There are much more clips, interviews and webinars he put up on youtube that I think will resonate with a lot of people.
Hey @DDandy😊
Thanks so much for sharing - I'd not come across Dr K and Mrs K before but just had a watch of the video you shared and it's great! I really LOVED how they talked about how important open communication is and how talking to your partner about your expectations and needs is so key. And how every relationship can determine what their own expectations are, even if they might seem unrealistic to others 🙌
What would be one of your expectations in a relationship?
Hi @Iona_RO , I'm so glad you enjoyed the video! I think my expectations in a relationship will always be transparency in communication. I think it would help both parties feel encouraged to tell each other what they want in the relationship (when in good faith of course!).
I think it also lets people make some mistakes in the relationship but still stick through together and learn to improve themselves through the relationship 🙂
I love seeing Blake Lively and Ryan Renolds together and seeing the funny and comedic interactions they have together! I think your completely right there @Iona_RO as media does show a lot of drama in relationships, but I also think at times it does the opposite and only shows us the great times which may place unrealistic standards for relationships as there are always going to be some healthy challanges in relationships!
How funny are they! They definitely tick off the fun aspect of a healthy relationship! 👏
That's such a good point @cloudgreen - a lot of rom-coms can portray a picture perfect relationship that just isn't realistic. Do you think that would fit under the authenticity and freedom characteristics? Being able to be your authentic self, with the freedom to share your opinions, even if it may cause a disagreement between you and your partner?