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What makes people compatible in long-term relationships?

04/29/25 9:34pm

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wikiHow Editorial Team

04/29/25 9:36pm

Long-term compatibility is typically based on shared values, similar life goals, and mutual attraction. It can help if you and your partner have similar political opinions, interests or hobbies, levels of extraversion or introversion, and emotional and intellectual intelligence. Honesty, trust, and communication are also important for a relationship to succeed, as is the ability to work through conflict.

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Michelle Joy, MA, MFT
Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

04/29/25 10:22pm

A great friendship in relationships is important and helps with long-term compatibility! This means laughing together and doing activities together that both of you enjoy. It also means having fun together—sometimes this means setting up “date nights” or “date days” where you can just enjoy each other’s company. Making time to cultivate your friendship with your partner helps with connection and bonding, thereby contributing to great long-term compatibility.

Additionally, couples with less rigidity and more flexibility have a tendency to work out better. These couples tend to be more willing to compromise, which creates a good-feeling atmosphere in the relationship. Rather than getting stuck in power struggles, these couples manage the differences between them in a more seamless way.

Finally, demonstrating that you and your partner care about how each other feels contributes to great long-term compatibility. Expressing care, compassion, comfort, and support when your partner is suffering are all strong relationship builders!

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