What’s the key to a successful relationship?

[Newsinglemum58]

What do you think are the most important predictors of success in a romantic relationship?

Effective communication. If you can’t have open, honest and enjoyable conversations, your relationship isn’t going to be great.

First and foremost good communication. Not just speaking, but listening and understanding.
Equally with that, the space to say how you feel without the fear of argument, so the ability to listen and take what is being said without reacting.

Understanding that your partner is an entirely separate being and they have wants and needs that won't always align with yours.

Friendship

Sexual attraction (with the understanding that desire peaks and troughs as time goes on)

I think those are the 4 most important things that ensure a solid grounding.

Agree. Communication.

Being able to pass the time of day with them and being able to talk through the really difficult stuff without issue.

Listening.

For me, 34 years married, sharing the same values and the ability to make each other laugh.

This is an excellent list.

Communication

Mutual respect

Similar life goals

Similar attitudes to money

This diesnt sound very romantic but thrrs nothing less romantic than constant bickering!

Respect. When DH and I disagree about something, he listens to my point of view and will sometimes change his opinion based on what I've said.

Communicating and shared values. After seeing all the comments on the ‘first date men pay’ thread, it’s clear that those who have strong views on this would be better suited to that type of partner. Shared interests I think are indifferent. It’s good to have some some space for yourself.

It will be different for everyone because everyone values different things. Two people need to fit together and not everyone will. What’s perfect for ne would be a nightmare for others and vice versa.

for me I need someone who’s a bit hot headed so I can’t corner them (I know, I’m hard work) needs to be fun and spontaneous so I don’t get bored. no routines or monotony. Needs to be able to match me in a fight - I can’t respect anyone who can’t deal with confrontation. Need a high sex drive to meet mine but must be decent at it too. I like things a bit old fashioned too. But what works for us won’t work for you

communication, listening, respect & being equal.

But mostly, luck. A lot is dependent on the combination & personality of the 2 people.

That you are both better individuals together than if you were not. This clearly manifests itself by different qualities for different people

Expectations

Communication and Compromise

Mutual attraction (emotional and sexual).
Mutual respect.
Mutual communication.
Being friends as well as lovers.

Depends a fair bit on your stage of life and what kind of a relationship you are looking for eg do you want a father for your children?

Listening, respect for each other, and self respect.

Surprised self respect hasn't been mentioned yet. It's hard to respect someone else in a healthy way if you don't respect yourself.

Finding someone who doesnt annoy the hell out of you after few years together