6 Top Tips on How to Build Strong Relationships
Work harder. Push further. Get rid of distractions. So often, we hear these types of calls to arms. To be successful, you have to be strong, stand on your own two feet, and tackle each challenge alone. This could, however, not be further from the truth. As humans, we are social beings at our core, and we thrive when we build strong relationships that provide us with support, camaraderie and a sense of belonging.
When we stand together, we are capable of achieving so much more. There is strength in numbers, combined with less pressure on each individual. In addition to increased ability and productivity, when we build strong relationships, it also increases our perception of our self-worth, which in turn increases our confidence, which in turn allows us to try new things and grow as individuals within our support network.
But how do we get to this point? While it might seem easy and natural for some people to build strong relationships, many of us may struggle at first, whether it is due to shyness, a lack of trust or previous trauma.
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when you set out to build strong relationships:
- Get in touch with yourself
Learn to appreciate yourself with all of your strengths as well as shortcomings. This plays an important role in allowing you to support others, or knowing when to ask for help.
- Work on communication
A healthy relationship requires good communication. This includes both talking and listening. Know when to speak up and make yourself heard and understood, and know when to listen.
- Respect boundaries
This includes your boundaries and that of the other parties involved. Know what you like and don’t like, and make an effort to learn this about the people in your life too.
- Don’t be controlling
Learn to control what you do, but that you are not in control of what others do. You cannot dictate the entire relationship, nor set expectations that only consider your side of the relationship.
- Apologise when necessary
Even a healthy relationship has its challenging moments. Always keep in mind what the relationship means to you and apologise when needed. This helps to build mutual respect and a space of safety – two essential features of a rock-solid relationship.
- Do the work
It takes effort to build strong relationships. They don’t simply happen by chance. Put in the effort – it’s worth it.
For support in developing yourself in your quest to build strong relationships – whether with your life partner, friends and family, or in your work environment, contact Dr Tienie Maritz.
Sources:
https://www.tieniemaritz.co.za/
https://youth.gov/youth-topics/teen-dating-violence/characteristics
