Due to our human nature, it is important for us to feel connected to others. We need to have positive relationships with others in business and personal life to be able to thrive! However, maintaining those connections is not always easy. Misunderstandings, differing views, and so many other factors can sever even the strongest of ties between people. It takes personal development and awareness to achieve this, so we’re going to give you 5 of the best ways to nurture connections and relationships.
Notice the Good in Others
It’s easy to only see the worst in others. We can point out bad habits, silently judge people for the smallest slights, and even wish ill on others in authority. Take the time to notice the good about someone daily. Maybe that boss who keeps asking you to stay late has a talent for encouraging the troops no matter the situation. Perhaps that friend with the weird laugh knows how to lighten the mood with a funny story or joke. By taking the time to change your mindset, you’ll be able to see someone in a new light.
Beware of Assuming in Relationships
We’ve all had that moment when a friend says they can’t hang out because “they’re busy”, but we spot them later at a local cafe enjoying a favorite drink without a care in the world. We may assume that they lied to us because they don’t like us, leading us into thoughts of negative self-judgment, only to learn later that they had been working on a project that day and went to the cafe for a drink to celebrate completing the task. Assumptions have resulted in many rifts between people. When you feel the habit of jumping to the most logical conclusion about a person, stop! Step back mentally to remind yourself that said individual may not intend evil towards you. Perhaps the harsh words were because they are under stress, causing them to snap for a moment. Maybe their tardiness is because of traffic. Don’t let the worst-case scenario be your go-to.
Don’t Sacrifice Too Much
Everyone wants to have their way, but that isn’t always the best scenario. Sometimes, one or both parties need to give in a little for the betterment of all. However, if one side is always sacrificing what they want so the other can be happy, that’s not healthy for anyone involved. Being able to work through conflicts helps a relationship thrive. Tell your boss that you can’t keep working constant overtime and discuss other options so both parties can be happy. Talk with your partner if their constant bad attitude or questionable behavior causes you to be concerned and unable to let it go.
Validate Others
You want others to assure you that your emotions and thoughts are valid – why not do the same for them? One good way to strengthen your relationships is by way of the age-old saying, “treat others as you want to be treated.” Let your friend know that their fears about the future are justified along with the fact that you are there to listen if they need someone to talk to. Take time to understand the goals of your colleagues. Be sure to validate yourself and treat yourself with this same respect too.
Being Available
It’s good to be available to others. Whether it be physically, emotionally, or mentally, being present for someone who needs you helps your connections grow. However, like most good things, being too available can be detrimental. Make sure that the other side is available for you too.
Our relationships and personal development need help from others to grow. Just as a flower can’t bloom without sunlight and water, so we cannot bloom without outside help. Take the time to look at how you interact with others. Talk to friends and loved ones about how you both view your relationship with each other. It’s never too late to better the ties that bind and nurture connections and relationships.
If you’re interested in speaking with us about personal development coaching, reach out today.