8 signs your partner is a genuinely good person, according to psychology

It’s not always easy to know if you’ve landed a truly good partner.

We can get so caught up in the romance that we overlook some of the most important qualities.

According to psychology, there are certain signs that indicate your partner is a genuinely good person. And guess what? It’s not about grand gestures or expensive gifts.

I’m going to share with you eight signs that show your partner is a real gem.

This isn’t about manipulation or deceit, it’s about recognizing the true goodness that lies within someone.

Let’s dive in.

1) Empathy is a priority

One of the most telling signs of a truly good person is their level of empathy.

Empathy is not simply about being nice, or even understanding someone else’s feelings. It’s about genuinely feeling what others are feeling. It’s about putting yourself in their shoes.

You can tell if your partner has this trait by observing how they interact with others. Do they show genuine concern when someone is upset? Do they strive to understand different perspectives?

Psychology tells us that empathy is a key trait in morally good individuals. It’s what drives them to do good deeds, help others, and make the world a better place.

2) They’re consistently honest

Honesty is the bedrock of any strong relationship. A partner who is genuine in their actions and words truly values the relationship and respects you.

I remember an incident with my partner that really brought this home to me. We were planning a surprise party for a friend, and I had accidentally let slip some details about it. My partner knew our friend would be disappointed if the surprise was spoiled, so they found a clever way to divert our friend’s suspicions without actually lying.

They could have easily lied to cover it up, but they didn’t. They chose to maintain their honesty while still keeping the surprise intact.

It was then I realized: honesty isn’t just about telling the truth; it’s about being truthful even when it’s difficult.

If your partner is consistently honest, even in small matters, it’s a strong sign that they are a genuinely good person.

3) They uphold fairness

Fairness is a fundamental attribute of a good person. It’s about treating everyone with respect and dignity, no matter who they are or what they have done.

Did you know psychology research has found that even infants have a sense of fairness? Studies have shown that babies as young as six months old prefer people who distribute goods equally.

In relationships, this can be seen in how your partner shares responsibilities and makes decisions. If they strive for balance and mutual agreement, it’s a sign they value fairness.

A partner who upholds fairness ensures your relationship is based on mutual respect and equality. It’s another sign you’ve got a genuinely good person on your hands.

4) They show kindness to everyone

Now, this one might seem obvious, but it’s worth noting. Kindness is a universal sign of a good person. But it’s not just about being kind to you or their friends and family.

Observe how your partner treats strangers, service workers, or anyone they don’t necessarily need to impress. Are they courteous, polite, and respectful? Do they show patience and understanding when things don’t go their way?

If you see your partner exhibiting kindness to all, you can be assured that their goodness runs deep. It’s not just a facade for the people they know, but a genuine part of who they are.

5) They forgive and forget

In any relationship, disagreements and mistakes are inevitable. What truly matters is how we handle these bumps in the road.

A genuinely good person knows how to forgive. They understand that holding onto grudges only breeds negativity and stands in the way of growth.

But what’s even more admirable is when they forget – when they don’t bring up past mistakes in future arguments or use them as ammunition.

When your partner forgives and forgets, it shows their capacity to love unconditionally. It means they value your relationship more than winning an argument or holding onto past hurts.

This isn’t just a sign of a good partner, but a sign of a beautiful soul.

6) They take responsibility

In life, we all make mistakes. What sets good people apart is their willingness to take responsibility for their actions.

I remember a time when I made a big mistake at work. I was terrified of the consequences and considered shifting the blame. But my partner encouraged me to own up to my mistake. They reminded me that everyone messes up, and it’s how we handle those mistakes that defines us.

They were right. I took responsibility, and while there were consequences, my boss appreciated my honesty. I learned a valuable lesson that day – one I couldn’t have learned without my partner’s wise advice.

If your partner takes responsibility for their actions and encourages you to do the same, it’s a clear sign they are a genuinely good person.

7) They respect boundaries

Respecting boundaries is a crucial element of any healthy relationship. It shows that your partner values your individuality and understands that you are two separate people with separate needs.

If your partner respects your personal space, supports your need for “me time,” or never pressures you to do something you’re uncomfortable with, they’re showing a high level of respect for your boundaries.

This sign of a genuinely good person goes beyond just respect. It shows they truly care about your wellbeing and want you to feel safe and comfortable in the relationship.

8) They practice selflessness

At the heart of a genuinely good person is a spirit of selflessness. It’s about putting your needs before their own, not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to.

If your partner often makes sacrifices for you, supports you in your goals, or goes out of their way to make your life easier, it’s a clear sign of their selflessness.

This is more than just a good quality in a partner. It’s a sign of true love and the ultimate indicator that your partner is a genuinely good person.

Final reflection: The heart of the matter

When it comes to determining the goodness of a person, it’s not a one-size-fits-all scenario. It’s a complex blend of qualities, actions, and intentions that make up the essence of who they are.

Psychologist Carl Rogers proposed that every individual strives towards becoming a ‘fully functioning person’ – someone who is in tune with their emotions, kind to others, and true to themselves.

If your partner exhibits these signs we’ve discussed, it’s likely they are on this path. But remember, no one is perfect. We all have our flaws and areas for growth.

What truly matters is the commitment to growth and the willingness to do better. If you see this in your partner, along with these signs, you’re not just lucky – you’re truly blessed.

So take a moment to reflect on these signs in your relationship. Appreciate them, nurture them, and most importantly, reciprocate them. Because at the end of the day, being a good person is about making the world a little bit better – one act of kindness at a time.