Posts Tagged ‘respect and consideration’

           

If the first key to valuing our relationships is respect and consideration, then the second key is appreciation.

Appreciation.

Who doesn’t like to be appreciated? 

And yet, despite our desire to feel appreciated for our efforts and for just being ourselves, we can be lax about demonstrating our appreciation for our loved ones. 

Yep, I’m as guilty as the next person of taking for granted many of the things I could be expressing appreciation for. 

I want my loved ones to know that I appreciate them for being themselves.  I appreciate them for being in my life.  I appreciate them. Period. 

So, where can I begin this holiday season to show my loved ones I appreciate them? 

How about writing a short note of appreciation for something very specific about your loved one?  You could do something for them that they normally do for YOU – in other words, surprise them with the special treatment they give you.  Or you can do a favor for them before they ask.  You could demonstrate your appreciation by spending time with them, doing something they like to do.  The point is to cause them to feel special for being who they are and because you value them in your life.

Oh, and of course, why not say . . .

Thank You! I appreciate you just the way you are.

How do YOU demonstrate appreciation in your relationships?  I’d love to hear from you!

~Margie

      

You know, if I’m honest, sometimes I find myself paying lip service to my most valued relationships. 

Sometimes I find that I’m taking my loved ones for granted. 

Here’s the thing, it takes time to build and maintain solid relationships, doesn’t it?  And how often do we pay attention to the care and feeding of those relationships? 

There’s no better time of year than the season of love and giving – this holiday season – to remind ourselves how to nourish our relationships. 

Here is the first of four points that I want to remind us of:

Consideration.  Respect. 

This is the first key to valuing our relationships.  We know that respect and consideration are important.  We want others to respect us and be considerate of us.  How do we reciprocate?  How about being the one to initiate consideration? 

This is your gentle reminder to treat your loved ones with care and consideration.  Treat them with a gentle and kind spirit.  Tell them that you respect them, respect their opinion, respect their time, and respect their differences.  Better yet, show them that you respect them.  Listen patiently and lovingly.  Laugh at their humorous remarks.  Smile when you see them.  Wait for them.  Walk side by side instead of hurrying ahead.  Speak lovingly. 

How do YOU demonstrate consideration and respect in your relationships?  I’d love to hear from you!