1. They aren’t going to just throw down.

Instead, they’re committed to helping one another overcome problems and conflicts. Simply being mad at the person won’t resolve anything.

2. They focus on the problem, not its embodiment.

They keep in mind that a relationship is sort of like being on a team. You have to support one another. Instead of focusing on the person or being right, they tackle the problem.

3. They truly listen.

They don’t just hear what you have to say, they put you in their shoes. Even if they don’t understand where you’re coming from, they still respect it.

4. There’s transparency.

There’s an unspoken promise that you can say what’s on your mind and it won’t have a profound impact on the relationship as a whole.

5. They get all the facts.

They want to hear your side without jumping to conclusions. They also make sure a problem exists in the first place.

6. They consider all the options.

They make mental lists of what the options are for resolutions before even pursuing one.

7. The solutions are chosen together.

One person in the relationship doesn’t decide how conflicts are resolved. Instead, they decide on it together.

8. They seek the positive.

Especially after a big fight, they find the positive in each other and work to mend the wounds that may have been made.

9. They respect ego.

Sometimes you’re wrong. Sometimes your partner is wrong. You wouldn’t like it if they rubbed that in your face, so don’t do that to them. Let them save face.

10. They don’t withhold their love.

No matter how bad things get.