Short messages on Relationships issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
It usually takes just a few negative comments to kill a person’s dream. Don’t speak these negative comments to others, and don’t listen to those who do.
We are all different in some way. What sets you apart may seem like a burden, but it’s not. Most of the time it’s what makes you so incredible!
Don’t let others convince you that you aren’t strong enough and smart enough. You are. Surround yourself with people who help strengthen you – those who see greatness in you, even when you don’t see it in yourself.
Emotional intelligence consists of four attributes: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness and relationship management.
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to identify, use, understand, and manage emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathise with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict.
When others can’t do something themselves, they’re going to tell you that you can’t do it either; and that’s a lie. These people are simply speaking from within the boundaries of their own limitations.
Think about your friends and your boyfriend/girlfriend. Ask yourself: What should a healthy relationship provide for the people in it?
Surround yourself with people who inspire you to smile. People who help you up when you’re down. People who would never take advantage of you. People who are honest and genuinely care. They are the ones worth keeping in your life.
If you are used to telling yourself that you’re ugly, that you are destined to fail, and that you’re not capable of performing in the world without someone holding your hand, then you will accept and feel most comfortable in relationships with people who reinforce these same negative beliefs.
Practice your expressions in the mirror. If you make a sour face when talking to others, you’ll often get this back. Try a genuine smile instead, and see the difference.