Allison Thomas Relationship Catalyst

Building Connections: Tips for Lasting Relationships

Creating lasting relationships requires effort and intention. Here are some tips:

• Be Present: Show genuine interest in others.
  When you are having a conversation, put your phone away. No distractions. Be totally present with them. Practice mindfulness of being in the moment. 
  Try not to think of the past or the future, just listen and be here now.
  They will notice the difference.
  
  
• Share Experiences: Create memories together.
  Do things you both enjoy – walking, running, goinf to the gym, dancing.
  Have a picnic – at the beach, in the bush, on the floor in your lounge (or in bed) if it isn’t suitable to be outside.
  Discuss your partners passion.
  Ask them what their fantasy is – which country would they love to travel to? Which part of Australia do they want to visit?
  Would they ideally live in a house at the beach, or in the bush, or the desert, or off-grid?
• Pampering: how would you like to be pampered? a relaxing massage, dinner cooked and presented, new clothes, ride in a racing car, your car washed…
• Be Trustworthy: Build trust through honesty and reliability.
  When you say you will do something, follow through. even if its a “small” thing. be reliable.
  Honesty means telling the truth. Always. Not even a little lie (cos you have to remember it) the truth is easy to remember because its the truth!
  Trust is built on honesty and transparency. So share your doubts. Be vulnerable. It often creates more respect and closeness from your partner or friend if you share.
  Confidentiality is also important. If someone wants you to tell you something personal and only for you to know, then don’t tell others. Feeling safe is important when you are feeling vulnerable.
• Communicate Regularly: Keep in touch to strengthen bonds.
  Friendship leads to closer relationships, so be a friend and keep in touch.
  Especially when you hear someone is struggling, either emotionally, physically or mentally, reach out and say hello. Ask “Are you OK? Can I do anything to help you?”
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge important moments in each other’s lives.
  Your own Anniversaries are often more important than “public” celebrations like Christmas and Valentines Day. Give a gift of your presence – quality time spent together, just reminiscing about your favourite times together. Discuss your present ongoing commitment to each other. Where do you want to be in 5 or 10 years time?
• Create more intimacy. Sit and hold hands. Look into each others eyes. Read a book together, taking turns to read excerpts.
• ENJOY!

For more hints and tips, read my book, or book to see me personally

Allison Thomas Relationship Catalyst Adelaide Australia