In the program La vida como es, José María Contreras addresses the concept of the liquid couple, a type of relationship that is increasingly common in today’s society. He explained that these are people who enter into relationships afraid to give 100% of themselves, for fear of “losing out” if the commitment doesn’t work out.

Even before getting married, these types of couples often say things like,  “whatever happens next”  or  “if it works out, we’ll keep going .” The problem, Contreras points out, is that “working out” is often understood as keeping the initial spark intact, something impossible to sustain forever. The spark transforms: first it’s new, then it turns into mature love.

For him, a healthy relationship does not avoid all conflict, but one that accepts that life, and therefore marriage, is full of ups and downs. The common mistake is to look outside for what isn’t cultivated within, comparing the couple to idealized hypotheses and forgetting their real virtues.

Physical and emotional fidelity

Contreras reminds us that not only physical fidelity exists, but also emotional fidelity. Even the thought of infidelity is a form of betrayal, even if the partner doesn’t know it. Liquid couples often neglect communication and respect, prioritizing what “I” get out of the relationship over what I can contribute.

Accepting the other as he or she is

Respect means recognizing, accepting, appreciating, and valuing the qualities and rights of others, without attempting to change their essence. Although a person can improve or deteriorate, they cannot transform into someone completely different. Wanting to change a partner’s personality is, according to Contreras, one of the greatest forms of disrespect.

Instead of focusing on flaws, he suggests being patient and reinforcing virtues. When we focus on failings, blame becomes a poison that erodes coexistence.

Living with imperfection

Every relationship is imperfect because it’s made up of two imperfect people. The important thing is that both partners are emotionally healthy and know how to manage their personal wounds. It’s also essential to avoid constant imposition and the belief that things can only be done “my way.”

Trust as a pillar

A strong couple is characterized by sharing what’s important, especially what reveals weakness or vulnerability. Trust implies that what is shared will never be used against the other. Betraying this trust by blaming past weaknesses is, for Contreras, one of the quickest ways to break a relationship.

Liquid couples, focused on empty promises and self-interest, will hardly ever fully love each other. Strength in a relationship is built on respect, acceptance, honest communication, and real commitment. Because, as Contreras concludes, “a healthy relationship doesn’t need to be perfect; it needs to be made up of healthy people.”