Tips for Having Meaningful Relationships

I’m always on the lookout for articles about networking. Here are a few snippets:

While technology has made it more convenient to keep in touch with the outside world, and even become re-acquainted with long-lost friends, it has also changed how we define relationships. Someone with 1,000 Facebook friends may think they're a rock star. But, how many of those "friends" would be there to support them when they start a business or go through a personal crisis?

I've learned that the more success you are at relationships with your family, friends and customers; the more successful you will be in life with all of them.

Because of the hustle and bustle of the 21st century, it's even more important than ever to have these meaningful types of relationships. Want to know how to achieve that? Follow these tips.

1. Be happy with yourself.

You may have heard this one before, and there is a reason for that - it remains the best place to start. As Michelle Maros so elegantly puts it in, Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life, "Your relationships outside will flounder if you don't have unconditional love and compassion for yourself."

2. Learn to listen and understand.

Throughout your life you've probably dealt with this problem. Your parents never listened. Your spouse never listens. Your boss just doesn't understand, or listen. George P.H. notes in, Pick The Brain, that we can connect with people simply by listening to them, hearing them out without interruption, and doing our best to understand where they're coming from.

3. Take the punch.

You can't always take things personally. We all have bad days where we freak out, vent, or scream at those around us. Sometimes people just need to vent."

Get amnesia concerning the outbursts of others.

4. Follow-up.

If you feel like you've hit it off with someone, professionally or personally, don't wait for them to get in touch with you. If you believe that there's potential for a new relationship, then make sure that you follow-up. Keith Ferrazzi, author of "Never Eat Alone," suggests that you should follow-up within 48 hours of the first meeting.

5. Take inventory of the relationships you have.

Some relationships are meant to be last for a long time. Other relationships may just linger because it's familiar and feels safe. Take an inventory of the relationships and see which ones you would like to hang onto and the ones you can let go. Letting go of unnecessary relationships opens up the opportunity to let new relationships into you life.

6. Pick up the phone.

Texts, email and Facebook comments are great every now and then, but there's nothing like having an actual conversation with someone. Don't hesitate to pick-up the phone and give your friend or peer a call to check-in and see how they're doing. I have found that it is a good idea to be respectful of the other person's time. The actual conversation does not have to be lengthy.

7. Find common interests.

It could be the same sports team, band, movie, job or extreme sport. No matter how big or small, finding a common interest is one of the best ways to establish a meaningful relationship.

8. Don't wait to be asked for help.

If you know that a colleague, friend or family member needs some sort of help, then jump in and offer your assistance before they ask. For example, if you know that they're moving and you have the time, you can offer to help, even if your body will hate it the next day.

9. Set calendar reminders.

We're all busy bees, so it's easy to lose contact with friends, colleagues, family members and acquaintances. To avoid a problem, use a set-up calendar reminder so that you can schedule a time to touch base with the people in life.

10. Be clear on what you want.

None of us like feeling disappointed. But, did you ever stop and think that maybe you didn't get your needs filled because you didn't specify what you really wanted? Even if it seems uncomfortable, always be honest in what you want or need.

Want to know more? Head on over to the full article here for more ideas and perspectives. Afterwards, why not drop me an email to share your thoughts at [email protected] ; or call me on 0467 749 378.

Thanks,

Robert