10 Ways Relationship Experts Can Tell if You're Going to Last

No relationship is perfect. There are arguments and fights, rough patches and dry spells. Maybe her snoring, which was once adorable, has become irritating. Or the sound of his breathing, which was cute in its own way, now resembles Darth Vader. But rest assured. Those are just normal responses that make your relationship normal.

There are always red flags to watch out for, but what about the good, the positive things? According to the relationship expert April Masini, known for her advice site AskApril.com, as long as if you share these commonalities exist, it’s all going to be OK.

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1 / 10

There’s mutual respect

You don't have to agree all the time and the sparks don't always have to be burning hot because "respect can carry you over those slumps and through those challenges," explains Masini.

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2 / 10

You have the same sense of humour

Couples who enjoy their time together and laugh a lot can easily heal with each other too. "When you can both laugh at the same things in the same way, you're way ahead of the crowd," insists Masini. "If you're compatible in humour, you're more likely to have a relationship that sticks." Without laughs, why bother?

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3 / 10

Identify problems the same way

Whether you see a problem and confront it head on, or sweep it under rug, as long as you see things the same way, you're compatible. Sure, it might not be the best way to deal but whatever works.

You have similar spending and saving habits

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You have similar spending and saving habits

Finances are an issue everyone faces so as long as you and your partner agree on how much (or how little) and how often you spend and save, that will cut down on future friction.

You have the same feelings about children

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You have the same feelings about children

This is a deal-breaker for many, and it's a conversation that needs to happen in the beginning (but not too close to the start; you don't want to scare them off). If you don't agree on the kids situation, it's probably time to end things. Otherwise down the road resentment will kick in.

Religious and political beliefs are in harmony

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Religious and political beliefs are in harmony

"Or you genuinely agree to disagree," adds the relationship expert. "Having similar political and religious beliefs makes it a lot easier to be together in the long run."

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7 / 10

You’ve got “matching baggage”

"Everyone comes to a relationship with baggage but when your baggage is compatible, there's a much better chance of the relationship going the distance," says Masini. For example, if you both have kids, co-parenting issues might be a little easier than if one of you doesn't have kids.

You have similar family backgrounds when it comes to relationships

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8 / 10

You have similar family backgrounds when it comes to relationships

Depending on what your family life was like growing up may determine your idea of future commitment. And if a couple's backgrounds differ, it might be tougher as things get increasingly serious. "What one person may see a tough time as an obstacle to overcome, the other may see it as an exit door."

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9 / 10

Your pasts are in the past

When you've both gotten over your exes, you're more likely to be ready for success in a relationship. While Masini acknowledges that "mutual healing is wonderful," if you're in different places, "it will be more difficult to gauge relationship success."