When it comes to what makes a relationship work long-term, one of the most important things is that you are pushing each other to be better people. Encourage each other to go after your dreams and don't pull each other down when you should be building each other up.

Here are some basic ideas that help any relationship flourish.

Be aware of your commitment

I've seen from personal experience that makes relationships go downhill is people expecting that it's going to be a fun and easy ride. It isn't. Relationships are hard work and committing and recommitting to each other every single day.

So what can you do to avoid falling into the idea that this should be easy? Remind each other every day of what you're fighting for. Remember those little things and affirm your love for each other. Push each other forward and understand that there is something worth fighting for.

Communicate

There always has to be good communication in any relationship. Be it a friendship, a romantic relationship, among family members... Keeping open communication makes it easier for issues to be talked through.

Distance is good

It's important to respect each other's space. It has nothing to do with the other person but everything to do with ourselves. Giving each other space allows us to grow. Therefore, it is important to respect the distance we might need to become better people.

The important moments matter

Sharing each moment's successes and failures in our lives creates an intimacy that brings a couple closer together than any big romantic gesture. It has to do with knowing that the person next to us will be there when we fail, to support us always, and he or she will be there to celebrate in the beauty of the amazing moments.

You won't be afraid to share

Sometimes we fear we are oversharing or boring someone else. When that person isn't our significant other, that might be something to keep an eye on out of politeness. However, when it comes to your significant other, you should never be afraid to share your passion and dreams with them. Be aware of this if it does become a problem. You should always feel OK about sharing your dreams and desires.

Be able to accept criticism

Your significant other might give you constructive criticism regarding you, your ideas, or the relationship. That's a good thing. It means they care about you. Be open to criticism! It might hurt, but they are trying to push you to be a better person. We aren't perfect, and we need people who, out of love and with absolute respect, will challenge us and push us to be better.

Criticism is only good when it is shared out of love and respect. If you feel you might be a domestic abuse victim, please go to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. You will find resources to help you understand what is defined as abuse and get you out of dangerous situations.

Ultimately, it's important to support and share each other's dreams regarding a healthy relationship. From the little daily moments to the big wins, your partner should be your rock and vice versa.