If you recognize these 8 signs, your partner is making you a better person

1) They challenge you

In every relationship, there’s a balance to be struck between comfort and growth.

Now, don’t get me wrong, having a partner who makes you feel safe and loved is important. But, if they’re continually pushing you beyond your comfort zone, encouraging you to take risks and embrace new experiences, that’s when you know they’re a keeper.

A partner who challenges you isn’t trying to change who you are; they’re shining a light on the potential they see in you that perhaps you haven’t noticed yet.

They believe in your capabilities, even when you’re doubting yourself.

It’s like having your personal cheerleader by your side, always ready to give you that little nudge when you need it.

2) They foster your independence

I’ve always believed that a healthy relationship is like a Venn diagram – two separate circles (individuals) overlapping to create a shared space. But the key here is, each circle retains its own identity.

That’s because, in love, it’s essential to have someone who respects and supports your independence.

Your partner should encourage you to have your own hobbies, interests, and social circles outside of your shared life.

Remember what the wise Khalil Gibran once said: “Let there be spaces in your togetherness… Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.”

A partner who fosters your independence is making you a better person by valuing your individuality and promoting self-love.

They understand that for you to be the best partner, you need to be the best version of yourself first.

3) They communicate openly

Communication – it’s one of those things we all know is important in a relationship, but it can be easier said than done.

I’ve seen time and again in my work with couples that open, honest, and respectful communication is the foundation of a strong and healthy relationship.

When your partner communicates with you openly, they’re not just sharing their thoughts and feelings; they’re inviting you into their world.

In my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship, I delve into how effective communication can help break the cycle of codependency and build healthier relationships.

So, if your partner is open with their communication, consider it a sign that they are contributing to you becoming a better person.

They’re helping you build trust, understand different perspectives, and develop better communication skills – all of which are invaluable in every aspect of life.

4) They don’t shy away from conflict

This might seem a little counterintuitive. After all, isn’t a good relationship supposed to be all about peace, harmony, and avoiding fights?

Well, not quite.

See, a partner who truly makes you a better person is one who doesn’t shy away from conflict. They understand that disagreements are natural and inevitable in any relationship. But it’s how we handle those disagreements that matter.

If your partner is willing to hash things out, even when it’s uncomfortable, they’re helping you grow.

They’re teaching you the value of compromise and the importance of facing issues head on instead of sweeping them under the rug.

Next time you have a disagreement with your partner, remember: It’s not about winning or losing – it’s about understanding and growing together. That’s what makes a relationship stronger.

5) They support your dreams

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of having someone in your corner, cheering you on as you chase your dreams.

I remember when I first decided to start the Love Connection blog, there were a lot of uncertainties and fears. But my partner was there every step of the way, supporting me, encouraging me, and believing in me even when I struggled to believe in myself.

A partner who supports your dreams is someone who sees your potential and wants you to reach it.

They’re not threatened by your success; instead, they celebrate it. They understand that your individual achievements contribute to the growth and success of your relationship.

So if your partner is your biggest cheerleader, consider yourself lucky. They’re helping you become a better person by encouraging you to pursue your passions and live your best life.

6) They’re not afraid to hold you accountable

Real talk: Nobody’s perfect. We all have our flaws, make mistakes, and sometimes, we need someone who loves us enough to call us out on it.

A partner who holds you accountable is one who cares about your growth. They’re not calling you out to criticize or belittle you; they’re doing it because they believe in your potential to be better.

Accountability in a relationship is crucial. It’s like a mirror that reflects your actions, helping you see where you can improve and grow. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s necessary.

7) They make you feel loved, just as you are

There’s an old saying by Oscar Wilde: “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.”

In my experience, I’ve found this to be true. But I’ve also found that being with a partner who loves and accepts you as you are, flaws and all, makes it easier to love yourself.

We all have moments of self-doubt, where we question our worth or feel like we’re not enough. But having a partner who sees your worth when you can’t, who loves you unconditionally and reminds you of your value – that’s a game-changer.

8) They’re your safe haven

Life is unpredictable. It can be messy, chaotic, and downright hard sometimes. But amidst all the uncertainty, having a partner who serves as your safe haven makes all the difference.

This doesn’t mean they shield you from life’s difficulties. Instead, they stand by you through it all – the good, the bad, the ugly. They’re your soft landing when things get tough, your comfort in the chaos.

If you find that your partner is your sanctuary, a place where you can be open, vulnerable, and truly yourself without fear of judgment or rejection, hold onto them. They’re not just making you a better person; they’re making your world a better place to be.

Final thoughts

If you recognize these eight signs, you’re in a relationship that’s doing more than just bringing you happiness—it’s helping you grow into the best version of yourself. A partner who challenges you, supports your goals, and encourages your personal development is truly special.

If you’re interested in learning more about healthy relationships and personal growth, I invite you to check out my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship.

It’s a guide to building healthier, more fulfilling relationships, filled with practical advice from my years of experience as a relationship expert.

As you continue to nurture your relationship, remember that growth is a two-way street.

Celebrate the positive impact your partner has on you, and strive to be the same source of inspiration for them. Together, you’re not just building a life—you’re building better versions of each other.