11 Unbreakable Rules EVERYONE Should Follow in a Relationship

If there was ever a relationship bible, it would include the most crucial rules all couples should abide by with no exception. Although one doesn't exist, we've got the next best thing for you to refer to. A healthy and happy relationship is one that never forgets the fundamentals. These guidelines should go without saying, but a little reminder can't hurt. Here are 11 things that should always be remembered.

01
Be faithful.
Charity and Ricky

Be faithful.

If one partner is having trouble with fidelity, then maybe he or she isn't ready to commit. Cheating is unacceptable under any circumstance.

02
Never stop working on your relationship.
Gabriel Gastelum Photography

Never stop working on your relationship.

Just because you're not fighting doesn't mean everything is perfect. A relationship is a working partnership that requires constant attention and effort. Put in what you want out of it.

03
Be kind.
Shoot Happens Photography

Be kind.

Even in times when your SO is driving you nuts, you must always be nice to each other. Practicing kindness when it's most difficult makes it a natural tendency on a regular basis. Think about how you'd want your parents to treat one another in front of you.

04
Be each other's biggest cheerleader.
A Guy + a Girl Photography

Be each other's biggest cheerleader.

A loving SO is encouraging and supportive on all fronts. It doesn't matter how silly or how big your partner's dream is. Reassure him or her that you'll be with them every step of the way.

05
Be honest.
StockSnap | Alvin Mahmudov

Be honest.

Honesty is key! Without trust, a strong foundation cannot exist. Don't even allow little white lies to slip through the cracks.

06
Respect each other's opinions.
Gabriel Gastelum Photography

Respect each other's opinions.

Rarely do couples share the exact same beliefs and values, but that doesn't mean one side is right or wrong. See from each other's perspectives in all situations, including fights.

07
Don't punish them for their past.
Bryan Sargent Photography

Don't punish them for their past.

Exes, previous dating patterns, etc. shouldn't be held against them. Your relationship will never grow if you can't move forward. And if he or she is the right person, none of that will matter, anyway.

08
Never hurt one another.
Libby Neder Photography

Never hurt one another.

This includes in any aspect, including but not limited to emotionally, physically, psychologically, and verbally. Never tolerate behavior that brings you down in any way.

09
Respect each other's families.
Gabriel Gastelum Photography

Respect each other's families.

Having a monster-in-law doesn't make it acceptable to treat your SO's family poorly. Even if they hate you, you have to suck it up and be the better person.

10
Treat each other as equals.
Nicole Caldwell Studio

Treat each other as equals.

No one should "wear the pants." A relationship should be a balanced partnership with shared responsibilities. No one should have more power over the other.

11
Love each other unconditionally.
Emily Illuminate

Love each other unconditionally.

Or at least try your very best to. Accepting their flaws and differences should come easily if you really care about them.