Quality Of Relationships

Most of the times the quality of our relationships depend on our character, qualities and prevailing mood. So, to really create good relationships we need first to look to ourselves and our own qualities and attitudes. We forget that relationships are “two-way” while we approach them as we would approach a task. We each come with our own agenda or idea and either ‘you go along with me’ or ‘you are out is the result’. We forget about relating to each other with dignity, respect and humanity.When we listen to others, others are much more likely to listen to us.

“Some of the biggest challenges in relationships come from the fact that most people enter a relationship in order to get something: they’re trying to find someone who’s going to make them feel good. In reality, the only way a relationship will last is if you see your relationship as a place that you go to give, and not a place that you go to take.” ~ Anthony Robbins

5 Ways to Improve the Quality of your Relationships

1.   Be a great listener.
If you have a friend, family member, or business associate who knows without a doubt that you are listening clearly, you are building trust with that person. Trust is the foundation of any solid, lasting relationship, and showing interest, concern, and care are vital to building this bond.

2.   Exercise compassion.
It can be very easy, particularly when you know who seems to be crisis oriented or has an array of problems. Put yourself in their shoes;  think of a similar experience you had, or better still, imagine yourself in that situation. How do you feel ? The point is to demonstrate your willingness to be objective and understanding without coming across as judgemental.

3.   Speak kindly and smile often.
Be in control of your tone of voice, your body language, and your facial expressions at all times. You may be able to make your words sound nice and sweet, but if you are not smiling or your body language is aggressive you cannot connect with the other person. Do not put the burden of worrying about what you think of the other person on their shoulders.

4.   Forget about damaging your own ego.
Every solid relationship, whether personal or work-oriented, can only be built by some amount of give and take. Realize the fact that the relationship in question is not all about you. There are many other facets to the individual’s life you are in relationship with – which you know nothing about. Keep things in perspective and be responsible for showing concern for the other person and yourself equally.

5.   Forgive for the sake of the relationship itself.
Forgiveness is essential to a healthy self-esteem and a life of freedom from burdens. When you hold grudges against another, you are hurting yourself more than anyone else. You are damaging your own ability to trust and form strong relationships with others. To forgive does not mean you are giving the other person a lifetime pass to trample on or hurt you. It simply means you care enough about yourself, the other person, and the relationship to move past any issues. Whether the other individual is willing to do the same is not so important; if you want strong relationships in your life you must learn to forgive; it is as simple as a choice.

Our day to day interactions and relationships with others are what make being a human being such a wonderful gift. Allowing others into our lives and worlds is equal to giving a part of ourselves away, and this involves risking pain and disappointment. If you practice the above behaviors regularly and make them a part of who you are in any life relationship you will find you have far more fulfilling relationships than disappointing ones.

Begin to strengthen the bonds you have with others and experience success, fulfillment and happiness today.