12 Signs You And Your Partner Are A Power Couple - Brides

When you consider the strongest relationships you know—whether it's Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco, Russell Wilson and Ciara, or even your own parents—you may be quick to label them as a "power couple." And while you not think much of your compliment, such a designation is ultimately an honor. "Power couples are the object of our romantic envy," says Dr. Robert Riordan, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in couples therapy. "They capture our attention because of their notable commitment to each other, as well as their capacity to juggle the various demands of their relationship. Power couples have an energy and balance to which other couples aspire."

Meet the Expert

• Dr. Tania Paredes is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience.
• Dr. Deanna Crosby is a licensed marriage and family therapist relationship therapist and the clinical director at New Method Wellness.
• Meagan Prost is a licensed professional counselor.
• Dr. Robert Riordan is an attorney and licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in couples therapy. He has a private practice in New York City and Connecticut and is the founder of Blueprint, an immersive couple retreat center.

However, while it may feel easy to identify the couples you know that boast such a status, it can be a bit more difficult to figure out whether or not you're in such a dynamic yourself. Consider this: A power couple is made up of partners who complement each other's strengths and support each other's individuality—while also thriving as a unit. In a lot of ways, they actually reject the notion of what a lot of people consider to be a perfect relationship. "The notion of a power couple is the opposite of the outdated romantic ideal of two individuals who are so in love and in sync that they effectively merge into one entity," says Dr. Riordan.

Ahead, learn how the professionals define this relationship term and how you and your partner can work toward becoming a power couple yourselves. Plus, we break down the 14 signs that show whether or not you're part of such a dynamic. Read on for more.

What Is a Power Couple?

The two members of a power couple shine as brightly on their own as they do together—and work to ensure this remains true over time. "In a power couple, when the parts are strong, the whole is stronger," says Dr. Riordan. "Each member of a power couple commits to investing meaningfully in their individual growth while, at the same time, actively supporting the growth of their partner. By doing so, these individuals unlock the growth potential of their romantic relationship."

5 Celebrity Power Couples to Know

Since a power couple is defined by each member's commitment to the other's growth, assigning the label to A-list celebrity duos, like Barack and Michelle Obama, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, and Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian, makes sense. "If you notice this list, most of us know the individual person in the couple on their own merits," says Dr. Tania Paredes, a licensed clinical social worker. "Their partner also supports and may add to the success of the other, but each member stands on their own." Deanna Crosby, a licensed therapist, agrees: "They both have whole lives, separately. They spend much time focused on their individual careers, then come together with much affection." She also gives the example of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, noting that the two of them go after their own goals while also supporting those of the other.

However, you don't need to be rich (or famous, for that matter), to be part of a power couple. These partnerships often have little to do with money. "There are plenty of couples who are financially successful, but who are not power couples," Dr. Riordan says. "At the same time, there are scores of couples with less material success who are most certainly power couples." Employing the growth mindset within your romantic partnership is ultimately the key to unlocking such a designation, he adds.

How to Become a Power Couple

Even if you don't currently feel as though you're part of a power couple, know that it's possible to strengthen your partnership and work toward such a status. Dr. Riordan suggests answering the following questions together to help unlock your full potential:

• Do we genuinely understand, respect, and value one another's individual ambitions?
• If so, what, if anything, gets in the way of each of us fully supporting the other's independent success? Explore and address with your partner if there's anything about the idea of your partner's independent growth that scares you or makes you envious or resentful.
• If you both feel that you're committed to supporting each other's success, consider what behaviors you engage in that signal this support to your partner. Are you flexible and willing to be periodically selfless as your partner advances their ambitions? How can you avoid one party consistently sacrificing more on behalf of the relationship? Do you intentionally celebrate your successes together?
• If you both feel on board to support one another's success, consider what behaviors you engage in that signal this support to third parties. Do you make it clear to others that you admire and respect your partner's individual growth? Do you clearly stand behind the idea that your occasional sacrifice ultimately benefits the overall health of your relationship?

14 Signs That You're Already Part of a Power Couple

Feel like you might already be part of a dynamic duo? Here are 14 signs that you and your partner are undeniably a power couple.