Understanding Relationships

• Building trust and respect

• Gaining insight and understanding through empathy

• Learning to communicate assertively and confidently

• Finding effective and appropriate methods of communication

It is often said that communication is the most important factor in a successful relationship. But what does this mean exactly? Communication involves various aspects, some of which we are aware, others not so much. So often it is the unmet, unsaid or unconscious expectations we hold that contribute toward the dissatisfaction and disappointment we experience in our personal and professional relationships. As we know however, any healthy relationship requires both parties to take responsibility for these expectations that undoubtedly influence us all.

More often than not it is the unmet expectations (of which we are sometimes unaware) that are the greatest cause of dissatisfaction in our relationships. Misunderstanding, misinterpretation and withholding vulnerability all contribute to the communication fractures we experience in our relationships. As a result, we may grow distant or even behave in ways that are contrary to the values we hold important. Often it is those we are closest to who usually take the brunt of this lack of communication and unprocessed expectations.

A successful and fulfilling relationship starts when we gain greater awareness of these expectations and how they work into our relationships. As we learn to communicate and understand them more effectively, we are able to appreciate and love more of what the other brings to our life. Ultimately, when all parties are open to grow in this awareness the relationship finds room to heal and grow naturally. When we figure out what intentions and actions add value to the lives of others, we can act accordingly and share amongst the healing, hope, trust, and joy that results.