Relationship Building: How To Develop Thriving Relationships In Your Life

3 years ago

Relationship Building: How To Develop Thriving Relationships In Your Life

As human beings, we’re naturally social creatures. Positive social interactions help us to lead productive, energetic lives. We need contact just like we need food, shelter, or water. But relationship building isn’t always simple. Particularly when it comes to a romantic partner.

Some individuals find it trickier than others to form strong nourishing bonds. And that’s ok. Relationships that inspire us and help us grow are rarely easy to find, right?

So, what’s the secret when it comes to relationship building? Here’s our advice on how to build and maintain great connections…

Everything You Need to Know About Relationship Building

Accept your partner for who they are

Now we don’t mean accepting less than you deserve or making excuses for bad behavior. If that’s what you’re experiencing, then by no means should you accept it. Remember, it’s good to have boundaries.

But if you’re in a happy, loving relationship with someone who respects you, then accepting your partner for who they are is key.

There’ll always be things that irritate or frustrate both of you. None of us are perfect and your partner is no exception. They’re their own person with their own set of quirks.

When you spend so much time with the same person, it can be easy to snap or allow your frustrations to get the better of you. In these times, it’s important to practice acceptance.

Grow within the relationship and outside of it

The opposite of a thriving relationship is one that’s staying still. As people, we’re meant to grow. As individuals, and in our relationships.

Sometimes, relationships end because people end up growing but in different directions. So for a relationship to thrive, you both need to be growing in harmony.

Make time to think about the shared goals you have as a couple, as well as giving each other space and support to focus on your individual goals and dreams.

But how do you actually achieve this? Make practical checklists of your accomplishments and plan adventures as a couple! Plan a road trip or go on a hike. Experiencing these achievements will bring you closer and prevent any resentment forming.

The key to relationship building: Make time to communicate

Communication is probably the most important skill to learn when it comes to relationship building. None of us are mind readers and it’s dangerous to assume what’s going on in someone else’s head. Particularly when you really care about that person.

So keep a constant channel of communication open. About all things. All the time. This means that when times get tough, you’ll already have great communication practices ongoing.

And when you do communicate, try to always do it with love and respect, even when you’re angry.

Your relationship is sometimes a reflection of how you see yourself

More often than not, how you view your relationship says something about you. If you find relationship building tricky, then reflect on what you as an individual find challenging about it.

Are you searching for a partner who shares your values? Maybe you’re more focused on infatuation than love? Or how do you feel about yourself?

When you love and respect yourself, you feel happy and comfortable with who you are. It then becomes easier to create a loving relationship because you value yourself enough to ensure your needs are met.

But when you’re hurt or bruised on the inside, it may lead to you attracting a relationship that matches how you feel. What we’re saying is, you can only attract and create a thriving relationship when you’re happy and whole on the inside first.

Be willing to work through the difficult times

Even the best relationships are hard work sometimes. They all go through seasons, some good, some bad. Going through a rough patch or experiencing disagreements doesn’t always mean you’re with the wrong person.

Most of the time, it’s because we just aren’t putting in the time and energy needed to understand each other. Remember, you two are a team! And a successful team sticks together. They don’t give up when things get rocky.

A relationship is about two different people coming together. For a relationship to thrive, you both should be willing to show up and work through the challenges that life throws your way.

Admit when you’re wrong

We all make mistakes. We’re human. So why do so many of us have a hard time admitting when we’re wrong?

Maybe it’s because we’re taught that making a mistake means we are failures. That it makes us bad people, or that it’s a sign of weakness. But it’s not.

In fact, there’s nothing more beautiful than seeing someone put aside their pride and admit when they’ve messed up. Particularly when it’s for someone they love.

So next time you make a mistake, try not to be defensive. Instead, be open and say you’re sorry. And if your partner messes up and apologizes, forgive them. Life’s too short to dwell on the little things. Forgive, let it go, and return to love.

Relationship building is important, there’s no denying that. But there’s no exact recipe on how to become good at it. It’s a science that varies from person to person and relationship to relationship.

But practicing these tips will mean you’re being kind, honest, and empowering yourself. And that’s an amazing place to start!