8 signs your relationship is probably going to last a very long time

One of my favorite things to see when I’m out and about is older couples walking hand in hand, seemingly just as in love as they were decades ago.

It’s so heartwarming and gives me hope that lasting love is not just a thing of fairy tales but a very real possibility. Anyone who’s in a relationship holds this hope in their heart.

Fortunately, there are a few ways we can tell if our relationship has what it takes to go the distance.

That’s exactly what I’ll be sharing today. In this article, we’ll explore 8 signs your relationship is probably going to last a very long time.

Let’s get started.

1) You communicate effectively

One of the key signs your relationship is likely to stand the test of time is effective communication.

You’re not just talking about what to have for dinner or which movie to watch. You’re discussing your feelings, your plans for the future, and even the things that worry or upset you.

In a lasting relationship, both partners understand how important it is to keep the lines of communication open.

It means you’re not afraid to express your thoughts and emotions, and you listen attentively when your partner does the same.

This kind of open dialogue creates a strong foundation of trust and mutual understanding. It shows that both of you are committed to resolving issues together and growing as a couple.

2) You enjoy your own space

While spending quality time together is essential in any relationship, it’s equally important to have some time apart.

This might sound surprising, but having your own space is actually a great sign that your relationship is built to last.

Couples who stay together even after decades have the space to:

• Pursue their individual interests
• Hang out with their own circle of friends
• Take some time to relax alone

Being comfortable with spending time apart means you trust each other implicitly. It shows that you’re secure in your relationship, and you don’t need to be constantly together to validate your bond.

Moreover, having time for yourself can actually strengthen your relationship. It gives you fresh experiences to share with your partner and keeps the relationship dynamic and interesting.

So, if you both love your ‘me time’ as much as your ‘we time’, it’s a good sign that you’re in a relationship that’s likely to last a lifetime.

3) You handle conflicts constructively

Every relationship has its fair share of disagreements and conflicts. What matters is how you handle them.

In a relationship that’s built to last, both partners understand that conflicts are not about winning or losing, but about understanding and compromise.

When disagreements arise, they don’t resort to personal attacks or blame games. Instead, they focus on the issue at hand and work together towards a solution.

This approach not only resolves the conflict but also strengthens their bond.

Interestingly, research has shown that couples who argue effectively and constructively are ten times more likely to have a happy relationship.

It’s because these couples are able to express their feelings and viewpoints without attacking the other person’s character.

4) You celebrate each other’s successes

Is your partner’s happiness your happiness? Do their victories feel like your own, too?

It’s a really promising sign when you feel genuine joy and pride for your partner’s accomplishments. 

You’re there to cheer them on during their highs and offer support during their lows. You don’t feel threatened or envious of their achievements but rather see them as a cause for celebration.

Being able to share in each other’s triumphs and challenges creates a strong bond of mutual respect and admiration. It shows that you value each other’s individual growth and accomplishments.

Ultimately, what this points to is that you view yourselves as a team, working together towards shared goals.

This brings me to the next point…

5) You tackle challenges as a team

Life is unpredictable and can throw some curveballs your way. But in a lasting relationship, you face these challenges together, as a team.

For instance, let’s say one of you loses a job unexpectedly. Instead of placing blame or creating tension, you comfort each other and start brainstorming solutions together.

You share the burden, and through this shared struggle, your bond strengthens.

This teamwork extends to everyday life as well. Whether it’s deciding on a new color for the living room wall or handling a fussy toddler, you’re in it together.

Tackling challenges as a team not only helps you overcome difficulties more efficiently, but also brings you closer. It demonstrates that no matter what life throws at you, neither of you is going to face it alone.

When you have this kind of mindset, it’s a powerful sign that your relationship is built to last.

6) You have shared rituals

Does your Sunday morning always start with a steaming cup of coffee in bed, followed by a leisurely stroll in the park?

Or maybe you have a tradition of cooking dinner together every Friday night?

These shared rituals might seem small, but they play a significant role in strengthening your bond.

These rituals create shared memories and experiences, forming a special connection between the two of you. They become your ‘thing’, something unique to your relationship that you look forward to.

Whether it’s watching your favorite show together, taking an annual vacation, or simply grocery shopping on weekends, these shared routines and traditions contribute to a sense of stability and predictability in your relationship.

So if you find comfort and happiness in these little rituals, it’s a heartwarming sign that your relationship is probably going to last a very long time.

7) You’re honest with each other, even when it’s hard

Real talk — long-lasting relationships aren’t always sunshine and rainbows.

Sometimes, they require difficult conversations and brutal honesty. You need to tell your partner when something’s bothering you, even though it might be uncomfortable.

Let’s say your partner has a habit that’s been irking you for a while. Instead of suppressing your feelings and letting resentment build up, you choose to address it.

You express your concern in a respectful way, making sure not to attack or belittle.

This honesty extends to all areas of your relationship. It means being open about your feelings, dreams, fears, and insecurities. It means being true to yourself and expecting the same from your partner.

It might be hard sometimes, but this honesty fosters trust, respect, and intimacy in the long term. It’s well worth the effort! 

8) You love and accept each other, just as you are

At the heart of every lasting relationship is unconditional love and acceptance. You see each other’s flaws and quirks, and you love each other not despite them, but because of them.

You don’t try to change your partner to fit some ideal image you have in your mind. Instead, you appreciate them for who they are, for their unique personality and individuality.

You know they’re not perfect, and neither are you. But in your eyes, they’re just right.

This acceptance creates a safe and nurturing environment where both partners can be their authentic selves without fear of judgment or rejection.

It fosters a deep sense of intimacy and connection that only strengthens over time.

So if you find that you love your partner, warts and all, and they feel the same about you, then congratulations! This is the most important sign that your relationship is probably going to last a very long time.

Final thoughts

While every relationship is unique, these signs should be able to help you assess the strength of your bond.

After all, no matter what your journey looks like, the key principles should always be there — mutual respect, love, and the willingness to work through the tough times together.

These foundational elements are what enable relationships to stand the test of time and all. If you see them in your relationship, that’s great.

There’s a good chance you’ll be one of those lovely older couples still holding hands and laughing together someday!