Expectations in relationships should be managed well by a couple. Setting expectations that are too high can put unnecessary pressure on each other. But, having low expectations can make you settle for less than what you deserve.
From such extremes, you need to manage your expectations with your partner to ensure that your relationship remains healthy. This is why it’s important to strive for a “good enough” relationship.
A ‘good enough’ relationship gives you and your man the proper environment to thrive in as individuals and as a team. It allows both of you to grow and learn from each other, while continuing to love.
Learning how to manage expectations in relationships is one of the key skills that can help your relationship survive in the long term.
Here are 8 reasonable expectations you should have in relationships:
1. Respect
Respect is #1 in any relationship. You need to respect your partner for himself and his inherent dignity, and vice versa. Respect breeds confidence, safety and wellbeing in your relationship.
Once respect is lost, all sorts of problems will arise; emotional distancing, constant arguments or negligence. You or your partner may eventually stop trying in your relationship.
2. Consideration and Appreciation
Being considerate in your relationship shows acknowledgement of each other’s feelings and wellbeing.
Having lots of expectations in relationships without appreciation is a recipe for disaster. Without appreciation, one partner may never feel good enough or is always trying to reach the standards of the other.
3. Honesty
Honesty builds intimacy. When you are honest with each other, you become vulnerable and let each other deeper into your lives. It also allows us to live in reality, instead of fantasy.
Honesty exposes all the good and the bad in our lives. Yet, it is only through honesty that your relationship becomes genuine.
4. Trust
This goes hand in hand with honesty. Trust is a cornerstone in relationships. Through trust, you can rely on each other and feel safe and secure with one another.
5. Alone time
Relationships do not complete us. Yes, relationships are highly influential, but they do not complete you as a person. You need your alone time and so does your partner. Asking for alone time is reasonable, it creates balance in your relationship.
6. Communication
This is an expectation in relationships that must be well managed. Communication helps to connect you with your man, and it also helps you to understand him better.
Knowing your partner’s love language and actively speaking it can quickly increase the intimacy and connection in your relationship.
7. Loyalty
This should be an expectation in every relationship; not a benefit. You deserve a man who remains faithful to you and only you. Loyalty strengthens your relationship over time.
8. Quality Time and Friendship
Spending time with each other is crucial. You can’t build a good relationship without quality time. Spending time together deepens the friendship between the two of you.
