Revitalising Relationships

Let’s face it. Some relationships are hard work. And often you may feel as if you are putting in much effort, and the other person is doing very little. That could be true of course, or it could be your perception, and often they differ.

Whether it is with your partner, child, sibling, friend or parent, there are some really simple things we can do each day to keep our relationships strong and able to steer the challenges we are faced with in life.

Relationships thrive when people show loving care for each other and work at their relationships. So let’s not forget some simple important parts of having great relationships around you.

6 Simple things never to forget

1.   Be kind. It costs you less energy to be kind than it does to be angry – so stick with being kind

2.   Give – a lot. Our relationships are not a loss and profit column, but research tells us (and we support it) that the more you give in any relationship, mostly the more you get in return

3.   Communicate – the life blood of your relationship. Without it, the relationship system slows down and unless addressed may not always survive

4.   Compromise – be more agile in arrangements and with ideas that the other person brings to you – don’t get stuck in a rigid way of thinking. Explore options together to work out what fits best

5.   Create time for intimacy – One couple asked me to help them rebuild their 11-year-old marriage, but when we worked it out, there were two hours a week where they could build their relationship. Two hours isn’t going to hack it. So, make your relationship (whatever it is) a priority

6.   Show respect- treat each other with fragile gloves and always be respectful and sensitive to the needs of each other.

When you look at these 6 factors, how well do you go on each and where do you think you can pay more focus?

Human relationships are not about you. Or me. They are about us.   

How well do you ‘do relationships?’ and where can you improve.