15 signs you're in a relationship for the long haul

This relationship is a marathon, not a sprint!

Most relationships come and go, but if you're lucky, some last a lifetime. (I know, disgustingly corny, but let’s be real; that’s all we really want...)

Here are 15 signs that your relationship isn’t going to fizzle out, and you’re in it for the long haul!

1. You talk through your issues

Communication has always and will always be one of, if not the, most important aspects in a relationship. So often, people break up during fights or miscommunications, but if you and your partner have the ability to confront those disagreements head-on and work through them -- meaning you forgive each other and relinquish resentment -- you're on the right path to being good to go.

2. You still cuddle every night

Whether it's just for a little bit before you go to sleep, holding each other the whole night, or snuggling up in the morning, simply holding on to each other for a little every night is one of the keys to a healthy and long lasting relationship.

3. You're not only together for convenience

After a while, things can get tough in relationships. If you move in together and start a life with each other, there may come a point when you stay together out of convenience instead of love. If you're genuinely happy with the life you're building and you've already been through some major challenges, that's a huge sign you're in it for the long haul.

4. You fart in front of each other

When you like someone, you want to impress them, which usually does not include letting out a long fart in their presence. But it turns out you shouldn’t be holding it in. There’s actually some research, which reveals that couples who fart in front of each other are more likely to stay together.

5. You tease each other playfully

Even when one of you is away in London on a business trip, you still text all the time, and speak on the phone before you go to bed. If you go a week without talking while one of you is away on work, that’s not a great sign.

6. You communicate a lot when one of you is out of town

Even when one of you is away in London on a business trip, you still text all the time, and speak on the phone before you go to bed. If you go a week without talking while one of you is away on work, that’s not a great sign.

7. You take your time alone without guilt

Saying, “I don’t want to go out with you tonight,” or “I need to be alone right now,” isn’t a big deal. You accept each other’s personal space and trust one another enough to know that if he needs support, he'll ask for it.

8. You can't imagine your life without him

It’s trite, but it’s true. Years ago, when I was struggling as to whether or not I should break up with my (now) ex, my sister-in-law asked, “What’s scarier? Never seeing her again or being with her for the rest of your life?” The thought of being with her forever was terrifying, and it became very clear we weren’t meant to be together any longer.

9. You want the best for him, even if it hurts

Don’t get me wrong. You shouldn’t be the martyr in your relationship (that hardly ever works out). But instead of only thinking about you, you think about what’s good for him. Sometimes, what’s good for him isn’t good for you, but that’s okay. You’re happy to do it for him because you love him and want him to be happy.

10. You're not trying to change him, but rather support him

Everyone has their flaws. Instead of trying to change all the little things he struggles with, you support his needs so he can change those things on his own.

11. You can keep your jealousy in check because you trust him

Some people are definitely more jealous than others. Truthfully, I believe the jealousy gene is somewhat innate. That said, even if you are a jealous person, you manage to keep your jealousy in check because you trust him and you know that he would never cheat on you.

12. You can argue without yelling

Arguments happen. In some relationships, a lot more than others. Every argument you have shouldn’t end in a yelling match. (Yes, of course some will, but those arguments should be few and far between.) For most arguments, you both should be able to communicate your points without raising your voice.

13. Sex is no longer the most important thing in your relationship

In the beginning, it’s expected that sex will be one of the most important things in your relationship. But as time progresses, sex should become less important, and the other things, like if you enjoy talking to him about mundane stuff, become more important.

14. You know when to lie and when to tell the truth

It drives me nuts when people claim they’re 100% honest with their partner. There’s simply no way for that to be possible. Personally, I believe that you should strive to be as honest with your partner as possible, and the few times you do lie, it’s for his benefit, not for your own.

15. Seeing him after a long, hard day makes you smile

After a long day, the thought of seeing your partner doesn’t make you anxious. It makes you smile knowing that your man/woman is waiting for you at home.