3 Simple Ways to Deepen Your Relationships

I’ve been thinking a lot about relationships lately; not only reflecting on the close relationships I have in my life, but also how we actually relate with others in the world. Relationships are our biggest assignments in this life. Period. They can be the most rewarding thing we expend our energy on, yet they can also be very challenging. As I continue to reflect on my relationships, I recognize that I am truly grateful for every single one, even the ones that pained me the most. The lessons we learn from relationships are the stepping-stones to leading us to who we truly are.

As we know, we cannot control, change, or manipulate anyone else to act or be as we wish (though sometimes we may really wish we could)! As always, with acceptance, the real work and ultimately true change starts. If you are like me and want to find that place of peace within yourself, and gratitude for those around you I have laid out three simple tips for you this week to help you along your way.

1. Cultivate confidence and love within yourself. I really believe we have to love and accept ourselves first to truly be the best kind of partner in any form of relationship. Everything we do in life stems from the relationship we have with ourselves. Take time daily to honor yourself, to connect with yourself, and to love yourself. There are so many ways you can do this, find a routine that makes you feel good.

2. Be present in all your interactions. We are so distracted these days! I can’t tell you how many times I have been with people I truly love and have spent more time focused on my phone than on the human beings in front of me. It doesn’t make me feel good. It doesn’t make my loved ones feel good. Make a dedicated effort to be present when you are with people. Look people in the eyes when you are talking to them, smile as you pass by people on the street, be courteous to those around you. I promise, people will appreciate these small gestures, and the love will come back to you tenfold.

3. Recognize the other person is you. We tend to get short, jump to conclusions, and create stories based on the actions of others. Remember, we are all just doing the best we can with what we’ve been given. Remember that we all have said things and done things that maybe were not in alignment with our highest selves. We are all human, we all make mistakes, we are all constantly growing and learning. Have patience with those in your life. Have compassion for those you encounter. Remember we are all here to be the embodiment of love.

I am so grateful for the relationship I have with all of you here! You bring joy to my life.

Let me know your thoughts on relationships in the comments below.

xoxo, Michelle