Six Hints for a Harmonious Relationship

Good relationships are the basis of having a fulfilling life. We can not thrive without them. But sometimes having good relationships with the people in our lives can be  a little difficult at times.  

 Harmonious Relationship
Hilary Thompson

Some people just can't seem to help rubbing us up the wrong way. We are not always able to remove these people from our lives, so for our own peace of mind it is useful to find some way of coping.

Here are some ideas to consider.

1. Imagine yourself in their position; you may get some useful insight as to why they they are behaving the way that they are.
2. Watch how they interact with other people and see if you can spot a pattern of behaviour. Also watch how other people react to them; are they all reacting the same way? 
3. Once you have identified the behaviour patterns, think about how you react to this person. Then make a conscious decision to react differently next time you are put on the spot. Create a new strategy and practice it in your mind, so that you can easily use it when needed. If the first strategy does not create the desired effect, try something different next time. Be flexible and play with it. It is all good learning. 
4. Make a point of being polite and kind to this person and see what happens. You may need to be persistent, but it is an interesting exercise and can easily make a huge difference.
5. Treat them the way that you would like to be treated. 
6. Remember that you can not change another persons behaviour, you can only change your own.

A Community of Water Birds
Hilary Thompson

Hilary Thompson

The Out and About Therapist

Relationships Coaching