Relationships play a key part in our lives whether it's with our family, friends, or colleagues. The quality of our relationships can strongly influence of the quality of our lives. According to an article published by Northwestern Medicine, "As humans, the relationships we form with other people are vital to our mental and emotional wellbeing, and really, our survival."

Going through my divorce after 10 years of marriage was probably one of the most profound points in my life as it paved a way for me to revisit what it takes to foster and maintain healthy relationships in general. Here are three things I learned:

1. You Can Be Your True Self

There are times in my life - especially when I was much younger - when I felt like I needed to be a certain way or do things to gain acceptance and validation from other people. Now, more than ever, I am comfortable with the person I am to include taking ownership of my flaws. I am grateful for the people in my life who appreciate me, however what is more important is I accept myself.

Along my journey, I came to realize in order to have healthy relationships it first starts with having one with myself. People who truly care about you and have your best interest will not want to change you and will appreciate you as you are. You do not have to pretend to be someone you are not. If they cannot not accept you for the person you are then they are not right people to have in your life. It's that simple.

2. You Are Appreciated

Any healthy relationship should bring out the best in you. If you are angry

and disappointed most of the time this may be sign to evaluate that relationship. No

one is perfect and it would be wrong to place this expectation on anyone to be. When

someone truly cares about you and your well-being they will make you a priority and go

out of their way to make you feel important.

3. There's a Solid Foundation

All relationships will experience challenges no matter how great things may appear from the outside. Every relationship - even the strongest ones - encounter difficulties. Ultimately, these challenges are designed to help us learn more about ourselves and strengthen our relationships as well as our character. When two different people come together in a relationship you probably will not view everything the same way. What is important is having

mutual trust, respect, and open communication as foundational elements in your relationship.