5 Rules for a Happier Relationships

“We’ve got this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You can’t just accept it and leave it in the cupboard or just think it’s going to get on by itself. You’ve got to keep watering it. You’ve got to really look after it and nurture it.”- John Lennon

One of the things that makes a good life is having happy and healthy relationships with other people. But like all other good things in life, happy relationships are not worked out overnight. They need to be tended in order to flourish.

Here are my rules for a happier relationships:

1. Always Prioritize People Over Anything Else.

There was a time when some of our friends were going abroad to work, and they were encouraging us to do the same. But my husband refused saying that it is more important for him to be with family and spend time with family than to earn more money away from family.

This is what I mean when I say prioritize people. Sometimes, we may think that it is a difficult choice. But let me give you a scenario- imagine yourself on your deathbed, would you rather have with you your material possessions or the people who love and care for you?

2. Be Slow to Anger; and Be Quick to Forgive.

When we’re angry, we can do or say things that we do not mean and will regret eventually. We can apologize, but as they say, the damage has been done. This is why it is important to be slow to anger.

We have to accept the fact that people are not perfect and so are we. There will always be times when they will hurt us, or WE HURT THEM. But we should always remember one important thing- that we love them more! So be quick to say sorry and to forgive, and always remind ourselves to forget!

3. Show People they are Appreciated.

How many of us take the time to say “thank you” for the love and care that we get from family, friends, or colleagues? Sometimes, it is easy to forget- especially if it is “expected” of them or when “we’re used to” being treated as such. But you know what, it’s a wonderful feeling to be thanked and appreciated. Besides, don’t you think it’s more sensible to let people know that you appreciate them while they can still acknowledge it and be happy about it?

4. Set Special Time Together to Bond-Play and have fun!

If we want to build strong foundation for relationships, we need to be intentional in setting an exclusive time for bonding. It does not need to be an expensive experience. You can actually still do things that you can enjoy and have fun without spending a lot!

A simple picnic at your backyard, a movie-night with the whole family, random visits to friends or in-laws, a stroll at night with our spouses or partners, manicure-pedicure with our daughter and sports game with our son are just few of the things that we can do.

5. Hug More, Kiss More, and (say I Love You More!).

Hugging and kissing are gestures that when done appropriately are very uplifting. Sometimes, they are even more effective and speaks louder than words. They could mean “I love you”, “I care for you”, “You’re special”, “I’m happy for you”, “I’m here for you”, “You’re amazing”, “You make me proud”, “You’ll get through this”… and so much more!

And who would not want to hear “I love you” everyday? 🙂

As I always say, relationships matter. People are special and you are special. So let’s start treating each other as one.

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