3 Tips for Better Connections

Relationships are built on many things, one of which is communication. Love is the easy part, as my mom would say. It’s easy to fall in love. But how do we stay in love? How do we remain happy together? And, how do we handle the bumps of life and yet, continue on the road? Staying connected can fade with friendships and love relationships as the years go by. However, there is hope, especially if both parties are willing. Don’t be scurred!

Connection has to do with communication. Communication is one of the most challenging parts of a relationship. It alludes many for a myriad of reasons - we weren’t raised that way, lack of trust, we don’t see the value in it, etc. Also, we’re living in a difficult time where it may feel safer to go inward to our own self-made cocoon, as opposed to connecting with others.

Nevertheless, if we want to fly in any type of relationship, we must warm up our wings with communication. Here are 3 simple tips that get us off the ground:

Call, don’t text - For friends, especially, this is a biggie. These days we’re often buried in social media and texting. We can become more isolated as a result, making it harder to connect in a healthy way. However, there is so much we glean from the intonations in a friend’s voice and the sound of their laughter when we’re on the phone. We share a multitude of emotions with our voices. While emojis are cute, they’re not equal to the sound of our best friend’s voice. And for those itching for love, you’ll need to talk to your mate eventually, so you may as well begin now!

Leave little notes in your lover’s suitcase, lunch bag, or pocket! - If your significant other is often out of the home for work, leave a sweet note for them in a spot where they’ll obviously find it. It can be of an experience that only the two of you share or simply something about the individual that you really appreciate. Letting someone know that they’re of value goes a long way.

Be interested - I’m sure many of us enjoy talking about ourselves, however, this isn’t much glue for a long-lasting relationship. “The relationship is in the other person.” This means, be interested in how the other is doing. It’s not just about you. Ask questions, be interested in their stories, be kind to them and care about their day. If we think of mothers, fathers and grandparents that have impacted our lives positively, they are the ones that have cared for our well-being the most.

Connect and communicate, and your relationships will be ones that you’re proud of, value and will endure the trials of life.

Take care of yourselves and each other.