As you go through life you will always face challenges in your relationships but remember, every relationship problem is just another opportunity to gain a greater appreciation for the ones you are in relationship with. Over the years I have learned that the power of your relationship is measured by the  amount of human interaction (both good and bad) and the personal value generated by that interaction. That’s why a proper dating relationship is so important. It is an opportunity for each of you to grow individually as a person and together as a couple.  It will allow you to develop a bond with your partner that will carry over into your marriage (if it leads to that) or result in a lasting relationship that will last a lifetime.

In Part One of this subject we addressed the first three power principles that exemplify the natural desire to relate to others in a harmonious and mutually supportive manner. Here are the next three power principles that can revolutionize your ability to maintain a healthy relationship.  Once you have mastered all 12 of these relationship principles and know how to apply them in every aspect of your life, you will have a consistently rich, rewarding, and long lasting relationship.

Principle 4 – The Power of Praise

An attitude of gratitude provides the nourishment for a healthy relationship that will naturally grow and blossom. We must learn to freely express gratitude and appreciation to our partners. We may think,”Oh they know I appreciate them” or “They know I love them.” Don’t let those thoughts get in the way of expressing your appreciation.  Be generous, spontaneous,  and sincere in passing along your thoughts of gratitude and appreciation. People are hungry for appreciation and positive reinforcement. Give them a full serving.

The secret to mastering this principle is being creative in your expression. There are two main ways people express their appreciation 1) Verbally (speaking in person or over the phone, 2) Non-verbally with notes, cards and actions.  Be spontaneous, be sincere, and be consistent and most of all be unpredictable.

Principle 5 – The Power of Staying in Touch

A wise man once said “One of the greatest gifts you can give to anyone is the gift of your attention.”  A great way to cultivate your relationship for growth is through constant action and interaction.  Taking time from your busy schedule just to touch base with a person is one of the highest forms of flattery. It says to the other person that they rank high on your priority list and that you are constantly on their mind.  That’s a lot better than to hear the normal statement, “Oh, I meant to call you but I got busy.” What does that say to your partner? It says “I’ll get to you when I can fit you in.”  “I was thinking of you” sounds great but “I was thinking of you and couldn’t help but give you a call just to hear your voice..” sounds so much better.   Tip: Every opportunity you seize to stay in touch is another opportunity to build your relationship.   Grab another brick every chance you get.

Principle 6 – The Power of Connecting

Building a strong connection with your partner begins with building a strong connection with one’s self. Building a strong sense of self will give you the confidence to approach relationship challenges in a positive manner without them affecting your self esteem.  Know who you are, and your personal goals and purpose so that you are defined by your own decisions and not by the relationship. Develop a clarity of your values and what is important to you and keep them in the forefront of your mind. Then your partner will be able to connect with you and become a powerful support system to enrich your life and enable you to accomplish your purpose.

In the same manner, you need to learn to connect with your partner and appreciate their personal goals, values,  and purpose.  Find their hot button (what turns them on emotionally)  and push it often. Take time to periodically discuss what is important in life and learn to appreciate your partner’s personal purpose, goals and dreams. Never criticize or belittle, but always be a source of encouragement. Look for opportunities to support them in accomplishing what they desire and learn to be their biggest cheerleader.  This will pay big dividends in developing a strong connection in your relationship.

These are the second group of principles, check back for the remainder of the principles. In the mean time, as homework, start focusing on these three and you’ll be one your way to enriching you relationship more than ever imagined.

Hope it helps,

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