Virtues of Healthy Relationships
By Georgia Smith , MA
Relationships are vitally important because it only takes “ one ” relationship to help you either fulfill all you can possibly be , or cause you hindrances and failure . Therefore , the virtues of a healthy relationship are as important as the kind of profession you fulfill . The fast paced society we live in today demands your full attention to making a living . In the rush of the demand , we neglect taking time to foster positive relationships with basic virtues .
Basic virtues are not always easy to implement . We all have difficult relationships which take extra effort to develop . But there are basic virtues which nurture healthy relationships . One of the main reasons people come for counseling is because of a relationship issue . Be it a negative self view , spousal relationship , friend or co-worker , or with their children , I find myself helping my clients through the difficulties of relationships far more than any other issue .
The art of listening and validation helps begin the emotional healing process , but I do not stop there . I know how important it is to help them take an account of what they can do to change . Implementing changes needed for healthier relationships is not easy but extremely rewarding . Basic virtues that nurture healthy relationships are well worth the reminder . As you read about them , I encourage you to make a mental note of which ones you desire growth in you .
Remember , it only takes one person in a relationship to move towards a positive direction , so let change start with you . I promise the effort you put into implementing change is rewarding , and strengthens healthy connection for future relationships .
Virtue of effective communication :
Effectively communicating means you listen empathetically first , without interrupting . Restating what you have heard is important in the process of communicating . Many misunderstandings can be avoided by restating what you “ think ” you just heard . There is much more to learn about effectively communicating , but empathetically listening and restating is a good start .
Virtue of understanding :
How many times have you said , “ I don ’ t feel understood ”? Being understood and validation of your emotions and thoughts makes someone feel what they think is important .
Virtue of acceptance :
Have you ever felt judged , criticized , condemned , or rejected ? Or have you been someone who displays these negative qualities . The virtue of acceptance means you simply accept someone without necessarily agreeing with them . You eliminate trying to control them or change them with your way of thinking . When acceptance is truly felt , it allows people to let their guards down and gives way to desires for behavioral change . Emotional barriers are erected because of criticism , judgments , and condemning .
24 DALLAS COUNTY Living Well Magazine | MARCH / APRIL 2017