Relationships. We all have them. We all want them. We all need them. Are your relationships, whether business, personal, social, etc. the best they can be? If not, check out these top ten qualities to have in a relationship:
Communication
In any relationship, communication is key. You have to talk to and get to know each other. That is the basis of any relationship, whether business or personal. The communication does not have to be daily contact, but contact them depending on your relationship.
Honesty
Honesty is always the best policy in any relationship. You cannot withhold any secrets from anyone you want to have a connection with. Even if you feel that you will hurt their feelings, they will respect you more if you tell them the truth. You do not want to sabotage your relationship with this person based on your lack of truth.
Maturity
This quality, like the other nine in this article, can take time to develop. But ultimately, you want to connect with someone who is mature and able to handle life’s situations in a mature manner. It does take time to become mature and that is where quality #4 comes in.
Patience
Don’t rush anything. Take your time building the foundation of the relationship and you will soon see results. Good things always take time to develop and become great, so do not rush it because you want to get to the next level, or you’re comparing your relationships to others. Build the foundation and nurture it.
Independence
We all want to be around people who are their truest selves. Someone who is able to do for themselves, and not always dependent on others. In any relationship, independence is a major key. It shows you that this person is fully capable of being ambitious and doing things for themselves. Plus, you want someone that has their own life, goals, hobbies, etc. This may work in your favor when discovering that you have certain hobbies in common!
Understanding
When getting to know someone, it is important to take into account how they communicate. Some may want to call daily, while others may text. Take the time to have a conversation and understand how to communicate with each other so everyone is on the same page. Notice how they verbally or nonverbally express their thoughts and feelings, and factor that into your communication with them.
Respect
Everyone deserves respect. Even if you happen to disagree with someone, do it respectfully. In relationships, respect whoever you are dealing with. This applies to their need for space, their quiet time, as well as their standards and morals. They will appreciate you even more for respecting what they believe in, and in turn reciprocate that for your needs.
Vulnerability 
The only way to truly have an effective relationship with anyone is to allow yourself to be open. Being vulnerable does not mean that you are a doormat to get walked all over, but instead you speak your truth and let your guard down. Your friendships and relationships will become stronger through practicing this.
Balance
You cannot hang out with someone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is impossible! That is why it is important that you balance out your time with them, while also carving out time for yourself and your needs. You can have fun, while also working hard, show your emotions while being strong, and be there for someone while showing up for yourself. Having a healthy balance of both is key to having a successful relationship with anyone.
Spontaneity
Last but not least, is spontaneity! It’s always good to switch things up in any relationship so that no one gets complacent. So do something out of the ordinary: go out for lunch instead of staying in your workspace, take a trip on the weekend instead of staying inside, or surprise someone with their favorite flowers just because. Spontaneity makes life more fun and exciting!
By: Alysia Lester, Anxiety In Teens Contributor