1. Trust. This is the foundation for any relationship I have, and it must be earned. It also includes honesty and accountability. I need my partner to own up to mistakes as well.
2. Respect.
3. Open Communication.
4. Reliability and responsibility.
5. Compatibility. This one contains a broad range of things, such as humor, interests, sex, space, and growth.
6. Thoughtfulness. My partner must acknowledge where I'm coming from. On top of that, I need someone who considers and responds to my feelings in the moment.
7. Collaboration. As much as I try, I can't make it work on my own!
8. Support. I include encouragement and appreciation in this category too. I have to know my partner is behind me and enjoys who I am and what I do.
9. Forgiveness.
10. Quality time and Romance. As much as I love day to day life, I would still much rather have one or two nights of time spent cuddling, talking, and being close than a whole week of routine and words exchanged that could've just as easily and effectively been communicated online or through text.
