It is remarkable how simple it is to build stronger relationships with people you love or even someone you have just met. It all comes down to the fact that we should actively endeavour to be compassionate and sincere with each other.
I usually smile at people as a gesture of kindness. Most of the time, they return the attitude and only sometimes not. Those losing battles upset me a little bit, but only recently did I realize that we should be focused on winning the war instead. I was subconsciously seeing my smiling habit through the reciprocity lenses, and everything changed when I purchased a new affordable pair of "values and principles" lenses.
It made me see clearly that we smile because of who we are and not because of the expectations of our actions.
One of my best friends is very often on his phone whilst together; only recently, after 25 years of friendship, I found the courage to talk to him about it. 'I would rather spend 13* minutes actively chatting and exchanging ideas instead of 2 hours of "just meeting" with you', I said. Of course, I was proud of myself for being able to do this, but it was mostly my friend's reaction and admittance of the situation that I was astonished by.
Being able to express my concern in simple words was enough to attract a sensible and straightforward reception. Moreover, it prompted a remarkable willingness to resolve it and thus enhance our -already meaningful- communication to greater levels.
Summarising: Discussing issues with people and doing it as straightforwardly and sincerely usually works. However, we shouldn't forget our values and principles. Communicating messages clearly without accountability will only enhance relationships and build the foundations for more robust and extended friendships.
*Note of the author: Definitely supporting odd numbers on the even-odds dilemma and a huge fan of the obscure, enchanting and well-concealed prime numbers 😊
Building Stronger Relationships
