Short messages on Relationships issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
When we’re older, we aren’t going to remember what was on our social media, or how impressed others were when we talked about all of the exotic places we’ve visited. We are going to remember what we’ve learned from others and the meaningful connections we’ve made with real people.
It is okay to cut toxic people out of your life. You don’t need their negativity, and you’re much better off without them. You are not required to argue that your existence is worthwhile, and it’s okay to decide not to waste your time and energy on them.
Treat people kindly, for your own sake as well as theirs. In the end, you will be the one who suffers, as you will have to live with yourself knowing what you’ve done. Respond with compassion and help others to do the same.
Although we all have differences, ultimately we are all the same, and we all feel lost at times. We all have the same feelings, and we all need to give love and to be loved.
Learning to appreciate the little gestures someone does for you will help you see the true beauty of your relationship and help you appreciate having them in your life.
There are many gestures besides roses and candlelight dinners that can be far more meaningful, such as when your partner washes the dishes, cooks you a meal, or washes your car – when they do something thoughtful for you.
Long-term romantic relationships consist of a series of seasons from the honeymoon to the empty nest during which the couple progresses from biological fireworks to deep, sustaining, romantic love and fruitful lives of shared experiences and relationships.
A good relationship requires effort, hard work and dedication from both partners. Unrealistic expectation for relationships, often causes unpleasantness, arguments and chaos in a relationship.
Unrealistic expectations are toxic in relationships. Stable adult relationships require both partners to look at mutual goals, compatibility on practical matters, and deep commitment to shared values and moral principles.
Conversation is a give-and-take dynamic, which involves listening. Nobody ever learned anything from just talking.