It's often been said that they key to happy and healthy living is finding a life partner and sticking with them. However, researchers at the University of Cincinnati recently found that spouses or live-in partners can influence each other's bad habits.
In a study of more than 60 hetero- and homosexual couples, the scientists found that long-term couples have a tendency to either engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking or drinking, together or simply become compliant with the other's negative actions.
"The finding that one partner is a 'direct bad influence' suggests that individuals converge in health habits across the course of their relationship, because one individual's unhealthy habits directly promotes the other's unhealthy habits," said researcher Corinne Reczek.
The researchers found that heterosexual couples were less likely than their homosexual counterparts to try to change negative behaviors in a partner.
"These findings extend this research to argue that intimate partners are cognizant of the ways in which they promote the unhealthy habits of one another," said Reczek.
If you've been finding that your life dreams and hope are being hindered by an unsupportive partner, it may be a good idea to seek counseling or have a talk with your significant other. A spouse is meant to support creating life dreams, not hinder it.
Trailblazer, philosopher and flutist Ilchi Lee recommends cutting ties with bad influences. While it can be very difficult to detach yourself from a long-time loved one, it is often worth it in the end if that person has been causing you to compromise your health or goals of becoming a better person.
