Six Steps To Better Relationships

A recent USA Today survey on relationships found the single biggest factor that people listed as a reason for their success and happiness in their life was healthy relationships at home and at work. The survey also found the inability to get along well with others was biggest single reason people listed for failure in their life.

The results of this survey ring loud and clear. All the happiness and success we achieve in life is because of the relationships we have with other people. No one does it alone.

The better your relationships are with your co-workers, business associates, and employees the more success you will have in your professional life. The same is true for your personal life. The better your relationships are with your spouse, parents, children and friends the happier your personal life will be.

Successful relationships are the key to everything you do in life. Here are six steps you can use to build better relationships:

1. Decide who holds the top position in your life. Be selective. Usually it's your spouse. If one friend will be closest to you, choose someone supportive.

2. Give that person highest priority in your life if that's the position he or she holds. This particular person is a source of happiness for you and you must make time for him or her.

3. Communicate. When friends move away, make the effort to write letters or make telephone calls. A good friendship can last for life.

4. See the good things. Whether it is your husband, wife, child or a friend, be generous with your praise. Be cautious with your criticism.

5. Weather the storms. Any relationship will have periods of difficulty. Cultivate loyalty and stay close, especially if a friend is having difficulties of his or her own.

6. Show your concern and your love. Practice loving kindness and it will be returned to you.

A healthy relationship is worth any price. Yet it can't be bought with money. Take the time to build good friendships gradually, and keep vigilant so that you don't undermine your efforts with destructive tendencies. If you are working on reconstructing and existing relationship, be patient and persevere.

Remember, when you need to reach out for another person, it's comforting to find that someone is there for you.