I'm A Psychotherapist: If You Want A Healthy Relationship, Make Sure You Do This

Every relationship is different, but experts have identified a few common patterns of healthy, thriving partnerships. Think: balanced conflict resolution, a little novelty, a sense of stability, and plenty of other green flags. And on a recent episode of the mindbodygreen podcast, licensed psychotherapist and trauma specialist Britt Frank, MSW, LSCSW, added one more to the list. Here, she explains the one practice she thinks everyone should follow.

Psychotherapist Ken Page, LCSW, agrees: "To give up the journey of self-discovery—at least some of which needs to occur during alone time—is to give up one of the richest dimensions of our lives. And our partnership will suffer, as we will," he recently told mbg. That said, dedicate time to exploring your own interests and getting to know yourself before investing in another person; this will help you maintain individuality in the relationship. Think of it like furnishing a home that's fully built rather than one that's half-finished—you can't move into a house with a wobbly foundation. 

Before jumping into a serious relationship, spend some time getting to know yourself, and make sure your life is self-sustaining. This way, you can enter the partnership with confidence and a strong foundation under your feet. And if you're already in a steady relationship (or just curious), here's our full guide to finding the balance between independence and connection.