Three things that happy couples have in common

'Couples that are really thriving continue to be curious about each other'

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Esther Perel is a renowned relationship expert who has worked with hundreds of couples around the world.

During her countless sessions with all different kinds of couples, Perel noticed a few key factors that happy relationships have in common:

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1. They remain curious about each other

“Couples that are really thriving continue to be curious about each other. They don't claim to already know the other person. They don't pretend they know what you're going to say before you even open your mouth.”

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2. They are genuinely happy for their partner

“They also are people who are really able to treasure the happiness of the other even if it has nothing to do with them. I'm happy for you, for what's happening to you. That is generous, it is kind, and it really makes anybody want to come home for that matter.”

3. They maintain their own personal lives in a relationship

“They also are people who respect a lot of the individuality of each person. Meaning, they are couples who often have quite a large space where each person has worlds of their own... inner worlds of thought, of pursuits, hobbies, passions, or friendships. Rather than hungry people who each are trying to feed off each other.”

“Those three elements, the freedom, the happiness for the other, and the admiration are essential elements of striving relationships,” Perel concludes.

Watch the video above to hear Perel's full analysis.

Story by Aly Weisman, editing by Chelsea Pineda and Alana Kakoyiannis

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