It’s always better to be in a mutually beneficial relationship than a one-sided one. In a mutual relationship, both parties are getting something out of it. They’re both happy with the arrangement and likely to stick with it.
On the other hand, in a one-sided relationship, one person is doing all the giving while the other is just taking. The giver may feel used and taken advantage of, and eventually, they’re going to get fed up and walk away.
So it’s better for everyone involved if you can find a balance in your relationships where everyone is benefitting somehow.
So what defines a mutually beneficial relationship?
In any relationship, both parties involved should benefit in some way; otherwise, it’s not worth their time. This is especially true in business relationships, where each company should bring something to the table that complements the other.
For example, if Company A manufactures furniture and Company B sells home decor, they might form a mutually beneficial relationship where Company A provides furniture at a discount to Company B, and Company B promotes A’s products in their store. Both companies would gain new customers and grow their businesses as a result.
Also, a mutually beneficial romantic relationship is one where both partners feel like they’re getting something valuable out of the relationship too. One-sided relationships are definitely not mutually beneficial; if one partner feels like they’re constantly doing all the work or carrying the other person, it’s not going to be a healthy or beneficial relationship for either party.
One partner will always feel like they’re singlehandedly holding the relationship on its feet, while the other will slowly start developing guilt and feeling like a burden. Check this article out later on how you can slowly start feeling like a burden and develop guilt about contributing less or nothing to the relationship, compared to your partner.
A good, mutually beneficial relationship should make both partners feel supported, appreciated, and loved. There should be give-and-take from both sides, and both people should feel like they’re in it together. If you’re in a one-sided relationship, it might be time to reassess things.
Ultimately, a mutually beneficial relationship is one where both parties constantly feel grateful for the relationship and like they’re gaining something valuable by being in it.
How to make sure a relationship is mutually beneficial?
One of the most important things to remember in any relationship is that it should be mutually beneficial. This can be tricky to achieve, but it’s worth the effort because a mutually beneficial relationship is usually the most rewarding and longest-lasting kind.
Here are a few tips for making sure your relationships are mutually beneficial:
1- Communicate your needs openly:
Communicate openly and honestly with each other. This will help you identify each other’s needs and make sure they are being met.
It can be difficult to learn to express your needs accurately and freely in a relationship, especially if you’re afraid of being seen as needy or demanding.
However, it’s essential to remember that both you and your partner have needs, and it’s okay to express them. If you’re feeling neglected or unappreciated, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your partner may not realize that there’s a problem, and open communication is the only way to resolve it.
Similarly, if you’re feeling overwhelmed or taken for granted, let your partner know. They may not be aware of how their actions are impacting you, but they’ll likely be more than happy to make changes if they know it would make you happy. Ultimately, honest and open communication is key to ensuring that both partners feel fulfilled in a relationship.
2- Be there for your partner:
Be generous with your time, energy, and resources. When you’re always the only one giving 100%, it’s easy to end up feeling resentful. Make sure you’re taking care of yourself as well so you can continue to give generously.
That means being present when they need you and listening to them when they want to talk, but not being scared of demanding the same treatment. It also means doing your best to be understanding and supportive, even when things are tough.
Of course, every relationship is different, so it’s important to determine how much time you need to spend with them and how much attention is enough for the both of you. If you’re both committed to making the relationship work, then being there for each other is a great place to start.
3- Be supportive but not neglectful of yourselves:
Be supportive without being suffocating. Everyone needs some space to grow and change, so give each other room to do that. It’s important to be there for your partner when they need you, but it’s also important to respect their independence.
So try and be supportive without being overbearing, and give them the space they need to grow as individuals. In addition, it’s important to maintain your own identity in the relationship.
Don’t lose yourself in the other person; make time for your own hobbies and interests, and keep up with your friends. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be in a better position to take care of your partner. Check this article out on how to find yourself again in a relationship if needed.
By following these tips, you can create relationships that are built on mutual respect and support, and that will stand the test of time.