How many of us have allowed ourselves to be caught up in the
whirlwind of a romance, only to be disappointed when the
“honeymoon” period is over and reality sets in? Often, our partner
is blamed for not putting in the effort to make the relationship
work. In every relationship, be it intimate relations, friendship
or kinship, it always takes a minimal of two people to work at it.
A fact that everyone is aware of but rarely practices.
How then can we maintain strong, healthy and self-fulfilling
relationships with a partner, parent or friend?
Communication – “Two monologues do not make a dialogue ~
Jeff Daly”
Deep, frequent, heart-to-heart conversations are essential in
maintaining any relationship. Relationships fail when individuals
hold the belief that: if he/she loves me, he/she should know what
to do or what to say. I don’t have to tell him/her what I’m feeling
or thinking.
We have to keep in mind that we are meant to interact, and are
not mind readers. If you have difficulty communicating deep issues
face-to-face, start off by sharing about your day and build up the
confidence gradually by sharing issues closer to your heart. The
person on the receiving end of your sharing will usually be
appreciative of your trust and honesty.
Make time for each other
Set specific times during the week to do something both of you
(or in a group setting) enjoy doing. Make it a point to celebrate
special occasions and if finances permit, why not spend a weekend
away from the stressors in life? Recognise that it is equally
important to make time for your family.
Recalling the good times
Remember why you fell in love the first place. There are always
wonderful memories etched in our brains. Reminisce on the fun times
you had together with your friends and children. Tapping on such
memories will also allow you to be more appreciative of one
another.
Do something nice for your loved one
Know your partner’s, friends’ and family’s love language and do
something they can appreciate. Love languages are expressed by –
buying gifts, words of affirmation, acts of service, physical
touch, and quality time. Understand how your partner showers you
with affection and allow your partner to understand how you shower
him/her with affection.
Appreciate the present
It’s too late for regrets when a love one passes on. There’s no
point in grieving when the person has passed on or has decided to
be out of your life. Learn to appreciate the present. Life is too
short to dwell on the insignificant.
Celebrate and Enjoy
Celebrate the relationships you have made and maintained over
the years. Enjoy the fruit of each journey you walked with that
individual. Thank the person for being your partner, friend or
family. Be grateful that they are still by you this day.
-- Yahoo!