The #1 Relational Skill Isn't What You Think

This is what separates healthy, loving, emotionally safe relationships from those in which you feel hurt, anxious, unsatisfied, and lonely.

The other day, I asked Calvin (my husband) what he thought made our relationship so great. He paused, took a breath, and said, "Total acceptance. You always accept me for who I am. I never feel like I have to worry that you'll judge me, and I definitely felt like that in past relationships."

I loved his answer. Accepting each other for who we are—the goo…