Nourishing Your Relationships

Relationships are a part of our lives whether we are aware of it or not. We are constantly relating with our friends, spouses, parents, children, colleagues or even the people we just met few seconds ago. Do our actions show that we are genuinely interested in relating?

It is important to be conscious that relationships are a vital part of our existence hence must be treated with uttermost care. Just like the right materials are used to build a solid house after the foundation has been set, building a solid relationship requires the right materials too. 

Some actions would show your interest in building and keeping a relationship. These are some of the important ones:

  • Be intentional about building your relationships!

If you really believe that the relationship is worthwhile, pay attention to nourishing it. Let your actions show that you are interested in keeping the relationship. Make time out to make the relationship work. Categorise the relationship as important. Actively check up on the person from time to time.

  • Be an active listener.

“To say that a person feels listened to means a lot more than just their ideas get heard. It’s a sign of respect. It makes people feel valued.” — Deborah Tannen.

Make the person you are in a relationship with feel valued. Let them know that they have your full attention. This adds to the value of you creating time to be with them. Listening actively while the other party is speaking – take note of every important detail. Implement listening where required by acting on what has been said.

  • Be considerate.

Remember a relationship is for both parties. It is about benefiting both ends – consider the other party and be attentive to their needs and desires. Sometimes, just being there for the person makes the difference: this is one of the ways you can show that you truly value your relationship with the person.

It is important to know that relationships would only be strengthened if a conscious effort is made to build that relationship. It only takes a willingness to do so. 

Be willing today to nourish every relationship that you have categorised as important in your life.