Relationships Require Care. Follow these tips to find harmony and happiness.
Balance. Donât make the other person the most important thing in your life. Have a variety of interests, friends, & passions.
Support. Talk through your concerns & problems with healthy friends or a counselor before sharing it with your loved one. Donât make him/her your counselor.
Listen. When your loved one shares, donât interrupt. When they finish, summarize what you heard. Donât give your own story or suggestions. Instead, help them explore the issue with clarifying questions (“You mentioned _, tell me more about that.”). Ask permission to offer solutions.
Self-Awareness. Be honest about the motivations behind your words and actions. Where are you being controlling or self-centered?
Kindness. Focus on your loved oneâs strengths and demonstrate care through your words and actions.
Forgiveness. Wait at least 2 days before discussing a conflict. During the talk (not through text or email), acknowledge your part in the disagreement and listen to their side of the story.
Donât use substances as a way of avoiding feelings. If youâre drinking or using a lot, your relationships will often fail. Try no more than 2 normal-sized drinks a day; if you canât stick with that, get help.
Meditation. If youâre moody or prone to anxiety, try the free app, âInsight Timerâ. It guides you thru meditations for any situation or emotion.
** Relationships can be difficult; the healthier you are, the better are your relationships. **
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