A lack of reciprocity in a relationship isn’t an invitation for you to try to convince them of your worth. –Helena Hart
Reciprocity of effort in a romantic relationship means both parties work to nurture the health of their relationship. To this end they find rituals for connection and learn each other’s love languages. They contribute equally, on balance, to create a shared world. This includes an agreed-upon frequency and means of checking in with each other. It is also demonstrating your appreciation and showing good manners. We need to regularly express gratitude for even the smallest of our partner’s contributions. It is also a willingness to take part and/or support the activities and interests of the other. It means to engage together with family and friends. It also means sharing financial resources – while that may not always be equitable, it works if the limits are understood. When reciprocity is missing, the relationship can derail.