How to be as close as perfect a couple can be.

You’re pretty sure you’ve finally found the right person for you. You know, the one who listens intently while you vent about your grueling day at work and is there to hold you tightly on the couch with your Netflix queue already lined up. But how can you tell for certain that your relationship is meant to be?

Luckily, research has some answers. Read up on these research-backed factors that strongly influence whether or not you and your partner are meant to go the distance. Because sometimes, relationship advice doesn’t do the trick.

You’re Both Positive

Studies show that a positive outlook and a few genuinely exchanged smiles a day can go a long way in keeping a relationship stable. Researchers from the University of Chicago found that when just one partner possesses a high level of positivity, there’s less conflict in the relationship.

“Positive emotions are fundamental to any relationship because they counteract the negative emotions that shut us down,” says Dr. Jane Greer, New York-based relationship expert. “This translates into feeling more secure with your partner and more trusting.”

Another study in The Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that couples who celebrated their partner’s achievements experienced greater satisfaction than those who responded with indifference or negativity.

You Keep Texting to a Minimum

Heavy texting can create dissatisfaction. A study from Brigham Young University found that texting too much can lead to disconnection, especially when one partner uses it as a substitute for face-to-face communication.

Dr. Greer explains, “When one person is less interactive, the expectation is not matched by the reality for the other, and this can lead to disappointment.” The study also found gender differences — men who text more reported lower satisfaction, while women reported higher. Bottom line? Text less, talk more.

You Limit Social Media Use

Overuse of social media is linked to more relationship conflicts and negative outcomes. A study in the Journal of Cyberpsychology found that frequent Facebook use is associated with cheating, breakups, and divorce.

Dr. Joseph Cilona advises simplifying digital exposure in a relationship and not oversharing. Interestingly, couples together for more than three years seemed less affected by social media use.

You Cuddle Often

Physical closeness like cuddling, hugging, or holding hands strongly correlates with couple satisfaction. The American Journal of Family Therapy found that consistent physical affection leads to happier relationships.

“Cuddling and tenderness help maintain the physical connection between couples — not just during intimacy,” says Dr. Greer. “This kind of touch helps foster lasting intimacy.”

You Fight Instead of Holding Back

Healthy conflict is better than suppressed emotions. Research from Florida State University found that expressing anger and resolving conflict is more effective for long-term success than bottling up resentment.

Dr. Greer notes, “If you learn to argue healthily early on, then you’re more comfortable expressing emotions and working through different points of view.”

You’re Regularly Intimate

A consistent intimacy schedule can enhance happiness. A study in the journal Society for Personality and Social Psychology found that couples who were intimate at least once a week were significantly happier — similar to gaining an extra $50,000 in income.

“Intimacy is a form of communication,” says Dr. Tessina. “If both people want that frequency, it boosts connection and satisfaction.”

You’re Similarly Aligned

Having a lot in common bodes well for relationships. A study by Wellesley College and the University of Kansas found that long-term relationship pairs shared significantly more values and attitudes than new pairs.

“Shared values mean shared approaches to life,” explains Dr. Greer. “That creates mutual respect and easier conflict resolution.”

You’re Yin and Yang With Money

Different financial personalities might complement each other. Research by Penn, Michigan, and Northwestern universities found that people often marry someone with an opposite spending style — and it works well when balanced thoughtfully.

Dr. Greer advises couples to align on big-ticket decisions while respecting differences in everyday spending styles.

You Have a Similar Sense of Humor

Laughing together strengthens emotional bonds. The Western Journal of Communication reports that 75% of happy couples laugh daily. Humor was also credited by 92% of married people as a key factor in their marriage.

“Humor is emotional glue,” says Dr. Greer. “It helps you cope with life and strengthens your bond through shared joy.”

You Consume Similar Amounts of Alcohol

Matching drinking habits can influence marital stability. A study from the Journal of Alcoholism found that couples who consumed similar amounts of alcohol were less likely to divorce.