• Start with self-awareness. Understand your values, emotions, and priorities.
Cultivate self-respect and empathy to form a strong personal foundation.
• Open Communication:
Practice active listening. Give full attention to others, validating their feelings.
Express thoughts and feelings honestly, fostering trust and understanding.
• Respect boundaries:
Set clear boundaries and communicate them kindly.
Respect others’ boundaries to create a safe and comfortable environment.
• Empathy Matters:
Put yourself in others’ shoes to comprehend their perspective.
Empathy strengthens connections and helps resolve conflicts positively.
• Conflict Resolution:
Approach conflicts as opportunities for growth.
Use “I” statements to express feelings and find common ground.
• Digital Etiquette:
Be mindful of online communication. Respect privacy and avoid cyberbullying.
Balance screen time with face-to-face interactions for genuine connections.
• Cultivate trust: Over time, trust is built on consistency and dependability.
The foundation of every happy relationship is trust.
• Positive Reinforcement: Recognise and value each other’s advantages.
Honour accomplishments while creating a happy environment.
• Adaptability:
Be open to change and growth in relationships.
Adaptability strengthens bonds through life’s various stages.
• Healthy Independence:
Encourage individual pursuits and personal growth.
Support each other’s goals and aspirations.
Remember, building healthy relationships is a continuous journey. Cultivate these habits, and you’ll navigate adolescence to adulthood with strong connections and effective communication.
By:
Uzokwe Calista
