Healthy interpersonal relationships are essential when it comes to living a fulfilling and meaningful life. Research has shown that the more connected you feel with others, the happier you are. If you’re struggling with people in your life, here are six ways to strengthen your interpersonal relationships:
1. FOCUS MORE ON LISTENING
Being a good friend and romantic partner means genuinely listening to the other person. While you’ll never be able to understand their thoughts, emotions, and experiences entirely, it’s vital that you hold space for people in your life to vent. You’ll find that you become closer to other people over time.
2. PRACTICE NON-JUDGMENT
When it comes to relationships, no one likes to be judged. Your friends, family, and significant others might share intimate details about themselves. It’s crucial that you don’t outwardly judge their choices or experiences. Doing so will only damage your relationships with others. Being non-judgmental enables others to trust you and open up more.
3. BE PRESENT
While you might feel annoyed listening to your friend ramble on about their day, you should nonetheless give them your undivided attention. Sustaining healthy, close relationships requires that you’re truly present with the other person, and it signals to them that you really care about your relationship.
4. HONOR YOUR PROMISES
When you promise someone something, it’s essential that you honor it. Being a person of integrity means that you’re trustworthy. Because all good relationships are built on trust and respect, if you don’t honor your promises, others won’t want to maintain relationships with you.
5. BE SUPPORTIVE
No matter the type of relationship, it’s crucial that you’re supportive of others. How can you be more supportive? By refraining from criticizing others, expressing judgments, or withholding emotional support. Being supportive of others means listening to them, being encouraging, and being positive.
6. GIVE PEOPLE SPACE
Sometimes the people in your life just need some space. This is especially true of introverts. If a friend or coworker declines an invite to do something with you, don’t take it personally. Just because someone doesn’t want to hang out or talk, doesn’t mean they’re upset with you. The people in your life will feel more respected if you honor their alone time.
Watch your interpersonal relationships flourish
To strengthen interpersonal relationships in your life, all you need to do is be willing to connect with others on a deeper level and give them a supportive space to explore their thoughts and emotions. It’s also crucial that you’re willing to open up to others and trust them, too. After all, relationships are a give-take.
References
- “10 Ways to Strengthen Your Relationships,” The Chopra Center, n.d.
- “7 Tips to Strengthen Any Relationship,” Psychology Today, April 18, 2017.
- “21 Ways to Strengthen Struggling Relationships,” Lifehack, November 14, 2017.
