Healthy, non-toxic relationships are incredibly important for us physically and mentally. It is a significant element of our lives to have good friendships, partnerships and relationships at work. Here’s a look at a few things to consider when trying to cultivate healthier relationships…
It’s O.K To Walk Away
Sometimes you can find yourself within friendships or relationships that do not serve us in the way that is healthy anymore. If we struggle within our friendships or marriage due to a lack of communication and things aren’t improving, it is OK to step back and think that the relationship has run its course. It may be a very difficult time to make a decision of that scale and after much counselling you may need to hire divorce solicitors to make the situation smoother. You both need to try to be understanding, despite it being a difficult time, especially if there are children involved. If you have a toxic friendship that is leaving you feeling upset on a regular basis, then it is ok to step away from that relationship. You can do this politely and with dignity for the sake of your own health and wellbeing.
Why Are Good Relationships Important?
A good happy relationship boosts your immune system, laughing with your partner and sharing moments, including travel, eating together and talking together can be positive for your mental and physical health. Close contact with those you love helps release endorphins and allows you to feel calmer and can help combat both depression and anxiety issues. Laughing with your partner can be beneficial to weight loss and helping to fight common health issues; which is what makes a positive relationship so important.
How Can We Achieve Healthier Relationships?
“Understanding is love’s other name. If you don’t understand, you can’t love.”
-Thich Nhat Hanh
This is achievable by looking at the key factors of growing a healthy relationship which include:
Make Time:
It’s vital that we are attentive and be sure that we put time into our relationships. Take time out to see how things are going and what may need to change
Talk Openly
Be aware: We should often ask if we are doing things right, if we are being selfish, if our partners need anything and what type of personality we have. Do I communicate openly and honestly, do I trust easily and what do I expect of others?
Be Thankful
Be positive on all aspects of the relationship: you should continue to remain positive and good natured and show warmth and dedication even when times are tough, unless things are unfixable, but that is subjective and you must be sure that you are making the right decisions for the right reasons. Be thankful for what you have and realise that you can probably take steps to improve the things that are going wrong. Be sure to listen and communicate. Be open to going to counselling and talking to others as advice may be vital to your growth.
Speak Calmly
Try to resolve issues calmly and rationally: Arguments can happen but it is the way we deal with this and how we aim to resolve conflict that truly matters. We must always try to show forgiveness and be open to reach new solutions rather than being stressed or unwilling.
Actively Listen
Listen well: As touched on before, listening requires empathy and a lot of mental strength. We must listen to others’ side of the story which can be difficult. Let them know that ‘‘I am here for you’ and never be ashamed to ask for help.
The Fabulous Times
