Take Key Steps to build better relationships?
Despite how important relationships are, we often take them for granted or are at a loss for practical ways to really nurture them effectively. This is especially applicable to our personal (even more specifically, our romantic) long-term relationships. Covid has added an extra layer of stress to many relationships, so it is more important than ever that we take Key Steps to nurture our relationships. To do this, we are using the word ‘RELATIONSHIPS’ as an acronym and have already covered ‘RE’ = be REAL and add EXCITEMENT. This week we will take the next steps to ‘be the difference that makes the difference.’
- L = LAUGH together. Laughter really is the best medicine. Take time to play and have fun together. Dare to be silly. Research shows that not only will it strengthen your relationship, but it will improve your health. There are several health benefits of laughter, such as lower blood pressure, reduced stress hormone levels, improved cardiac health, boosted T-cells, endorphin release and an overall sense of wellbeing. Even just smiling regularly can increase your lifespan. We are fortunate to have Mila who brings daily laughter and fun. In the absence of a toddler, what can you do to increase your fun quota and laugh together? Many of us have a long weekend coming up so it could present a good opportunity to factor in fun and even lead to special opportunities to acknowledge and…
- A = APPRECIATE the special people in your life. Never take your partner, colleagues and loved ones in general for granted. It can be as simple as saying, “thank you!” on a regular basis. Find special ways to show people that you appreciate them. It can be a handwritten card, a note in a lunch box, a thoughtful gesture (maybe unexpected flowers, offering to take the kids to school or making a romantic dinner), a meaningful touch or embrace.
ALWAYS remember special occasions and make a point of spending quality time together. It could also be helpful to find out your partner’s love language and appreciate them the way they most enjoy being appreciated. Some people prefer words of affirmation (like me — I’d rather have a handwritten note over any gift), while others feel loved by acts of service, quality time, gifts and/or physical touch. You can determine your love language here. Remember that it is ideal to show appreciation in multiple ways as many of us have multiple love languages and genuine unexpected appreciation goes a long way to nurturing relationships.
Now ask yourself, “What are you going to do this week to bring about opportunities to laugh together and appreciate each other?” It’s often the little things that make the biggest difference. Remember that this is true of both your relationships at home and at work. Take just one or two small Key Steps and you can…
‘be the difference that makes the difference’?
