Here are a number of empowerment qualities:

2. Having access to information and resources: decisions are best made when the individual has ample information to weigh the pros and cons. Keep your partner updated to changes. For example, if you receive a raise let him/her know as opposed to keeping it a secret in order to save more. It might appear that you are doing something beneficial for the two of you, but withholding information takes the power away from your partner. 

3. Having a range of options from which to make choices (not just yes/no, either/or): Self explanatory.

4. Assertiveness: being able to clearly state one's wishes and to stand up for oneself-helps an individual to get what he or she wants which results in feeling empowered. Initially the partner who takes on power in a relationship feels great being in control, however, after a while resentment at being in charge sets in. Allow your partner to assert his/her desires and you both will come out ahead.

5. A feeling that the individual can make a difference (being hopeful): A person who is hopeful believes in the possibility of future change and improvement; without hope, it can seem pointless to make an effort. Being in a relationship with someone who feels defeated is not fun. One begins to feel like he/she is the only one pulling the weight. Instead of being angry at your partner for shutting down, give them hope by acknowledging their contribution to the relationship no matter how miniscule it seems.

6. Not feeling alone:  a partner can feel alienated and alone even in a relationship. If an individual feels like they can't express a thought, feeling, desire they begin to feel despair and loneliness.  Counteract that by validating your partner's statements.

7. Effecting change in one's life and one's community: empowerment is about more than a "feeling" or a "sense," we see such feelings as precursors to action. When a person brings about actual change, he or she increases feelings of mastery and control. This, in turn, leads to further and more effective change. 

8. Changing others' perceptions of one's competency and capacity to act: as one becomes better able to take control of one's life, it is important for the partner to verbalize his/her perception of change. As the individual recognizes that they are earning the respect of others, their self-confidence increases, thus further changing family and friends perceptions. We are influenced by our loved one's opinion, as the relationship is equalizing it is important for people who share in our life to be aware of the shift.

9. Growth and change that is never ending and self-initiated: empowerment is not a destination, but a journey; that no one reached a final stage in which further growth and change is unnecessary. Both partners are constantly evolving and need each other's support in various life stages. It is important to keep equilibrium in place.

10. Increasing one's positive self-image: as a person becomes more empowered, he or she begins to feel more confident and capable. This, in turn, leads to increased ability to manage one's life, resulting in a still more improved self-image. At this point the individual is not pushing away the partner who was more in control but rather becoming a better companion.