How to improve your relationships
Think of the acronym: GIVE to help you to easily remember the four things you can do regularly to keep your relationship fresh and happy.
Gentle
Be gentle with your partner. Don’t shout or ridicule them. Treat them with respect and kindness. The more you do this, the more you will find it returned to you… and if you don’t it might not be the right relationship to be in.
Don’t attack, threaten or be judgemental. Accept the occasional “no” for your requests.
Interested
Show interest in the other person’s life. Really listen to them when they talk to you. Part of the wonder of being in a relationship is sharing life and experiences. Use reflective listening where you repeat back what you have heard. We all live busy lives and we can end up becoming complacent in our relationships. Make the effort to show the person you care about that you are interested in them – in what they do, as well as in their hopes and aspirations.
Validate
This is an important one. Give the other person positive feedback and compliment them. Show love and express your feelings. Communication – regular, open and honest is one of the most positive characteristics of a successful relationship. A relationship is far more likely to last when there is regular communication about feelings and emotions, not just about whose turn it is to put the bins out.
Easy
See the funny side of life and be forgiving. No one is perfect. Never take yourself too seriously. Sometimes, using humour is a great way to diffuse conflict. Have an easy going attitude, smile and be playful as much as possible. Inject regular fun into your relationship to keep it lighthearted.
Relationships take work, put effort in and you will be rewarded. Everyone likes to feel loved and appreciated.
Mandy X
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
