Fundamentals of a working relationship

[The AlphaOmega]

I was just wondering what everyone thinks they are.  What aspects are necessary for a working relationship.  Modern or old fashion, what are thoughts on this issue.  Is love necessary for any working relationship?  Can common goals and a common respect equal a healthy relationship.  Can a relationship based purely on physical attraction ever work, or is it necessary to stimulate each other on a mental or spiritual level?  Can a relationship work because it makes sense to be in it philosophically, even if love and growth are not in it?  Just curious what everyone thinks, and be honest.  There must be a few out there who don't believe in love.  And there are definitely those who believe in nothing but love.  I would like to hear both sides.

[WalkerInTheWoods]

I have come to the conclusion that there are no set rules or guide lines for relationships. It all depends on those involved and what they want. I think the only thing needed is for those involved to want to be in the relationship and to make it work.

[Logic]

I have come to the conclusion that there are no set rules or guide lines for relationships. It all depends on those involved and what they want. I think the only thing needed is for those involved to want to be in the relationship and to make it work.

Agreed, though I dont think serious relationships based on a physical level can last long.

[Fyrenze]

I think it could easily be a physical relationship.

Both parties need to want the relationship and be honest with themselves and the other party involved exactly what the relationship is. If both parties still want the relationship when it's clear up front what sort it is, the relationship will work.

Heck, that's basically the way it works in nature.

Doesn't matter if it's a "booty call" or a more traditional loving relationship.

That's what I think, anyway.

[wisp]

For me, I see the abuse and taking advantage of love. There is so much misuse of love that it really is of no effect. So many are misguided into this false idea, and may feel obliged love. How many love, when most don't love themselves? If this is so, then I guess I believe love is at a minimum.

Although I believe in love, it seems it should be replaced with the word "caring".A person can go through the actions, or be paid or paid off to care,but they cannot be paid to love.

This day and age, in this country anyway, there is no excuse for a choice of independence and self sufficiency.
I am amazed at the numbers who compromise in less than an ideal relationship. A functional or ideal relationship doesn't require love. Caring can be proven by the daily actions of each involved. There is no proof of love required.

In a "love" relationship, if one member is comfortable, be careful of the motives of the other. I don't believe love is visible. It is this kind of arrangement which proves it. Caring is visible, and there is a price.Love is free and invisible.

[You]

Not a clue. I know every rule in the book for a successful relationship from having read about it, though no experience at all since I suck at them. I've thought about putting the principals into play... but I'm a romantic at heart, and following formulas for romance just seems so unromantic and unmagical... it seems less perfect when it's something you have to consciously work at. None of the people in certain animes I watch have to work at it, and the ones that do get screwed over. The ones that don't have great difficulties, but fall for each other and live happily and lovely for ever after, even if one dies or they're separated, the love is deep and strong and beautiful. Ah.... *sighs*... eeee Oy.

[Telos]

In order of importance, but all necessary:

1) Having the same explicit goals
2) Enthusiasm
3) Patience