Relationships are an important part of life and the foundation of society. Relationships allow us to share thoughts and ideas, engage with other people, and grow through combined experiences. The relationships that thrive are those that are based on trust, understanding, and appreciation. However, when relationships are strained, they tend to spiral downward. This can lead to frustration, anger, or disappointment, which can then lead to broken relationships.
Here’s How to Nurture Your Relationships:
Acts of Service
These are things you do for the other person to make their life better. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to nurture relationships is by “Acts of Service.” Acts of Service include gestures such as helping someone carry something heavier than normal, remembering to bring someone a beverage or snack, and helping someone get the mail. Acts of Service can be a way of showing love without words.
Acts of Love
These are things you do for the other person because they make you feel good about yourself. Giving and receiving love is a fundamental human need. It can feel difficult to find or keep the right balance in our relationships. Building and maintaining healthy relationships can be a challenge, but time spent cultivating a loving connection with others can help you lead a happier, more fulfilling life.
Acts of Prayer
These are things you do for the other person because you feel God is watching over them. Prayer is an important part of nurturing our relationship with God and each other, and when you add the ministry for youth into the mix, this feeling is only enhanced further. Prayer is the conduit through which the love, peace, joy, power and presence of God the Father flow into our lives. If you are thinking that prayer is something only religious people do, you need to rethink that. Prayer is communication with God and a great way to get to know God better.
Acts of Listening
These are things you do for the other person because they give you an insight into their life. Listening is a two-way street, and if you want to nurture your relationship, you have to be willing to share. Talking about ourselves seems simple to many of us, but it’s a challenge for others. Listen up, fellow introverts, and take heed: everyone can benefit from hearing themselves speak. Focus on your partner’s feelings and concerns. Demonstrate openness and eagerness to serve. Then, dig deep.
Acts of Encouragement
These are things you do for the other person because they brighten them up. Some of the most encouraging words we can ever say to one another are “I love you.” A simple but powerful statement. These words are said often, and they mean something, especially when they come from a boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, or a child.
Unfortunately, the sad reality is that these simple words are often not accompanied by actions. With busy work schedules, children, and homes to run, sometimes we don’t get around to saying them as often as we’d like.
Acts of Appreciation
These are things you do for the other person because they make them feel appreciated. Saying thank you is one of the simplest gifts you can give someone. It is a simple gesture that can go a long way. It is the gift that keeps on giving because the act of giving itself makes you feel good. Saying thank you is also good for your health. Studies have shown that people who regularly express gratitude have better health outcomes.
Acts of Support
These are things you do for the other person because they make them feel supported. It’s easy to get caught up in day-to-day activities. The hustle and bustle of everyday life can sometimes cause us to forget how important our relationships are. It’s important to nurture those relationships by taking the time to show our loved ones how much they mean to us. Learn how you can show your love and support for others with these simple acts of support.
Acts of Respect
These things are things you do for the other person because they remind you of your own value and worth. Respect is one of the most critical elements of making meaningful relationships. Developmentally, respect should be taught at a young age, and with today’s technology, it’s even more important.
Many people resist the idea of nurturing their relationships, instead prioritizing things like work, family, and exercise. Often, people mistakenly believe that relationships are superficial and, therefore, not worth investing time and effort into. However, nurturing your relationships is a never-ending process that requires continuous effort. When you invest in your relationship, you invest in yourself.
