What’s Blocking the path to a successful relationship? -

How do you determine what’s blocking the path to a successful relationship? We have to pinpoint the variables that are contributing to this dilemma. We strive for happiness, right? Which pieces are ones that can be controlled and by who? Make a plan to constructively deal with those things you can as soon as possible. Think ahead to the next time this same situation will come up and figure out a preventative strategy. Otherwise, you know the scene will just continue to repeat itself. Be dedicated to your relationship. Speed bumps happen. If you have a plan to deal with them effectively, they won’t seem to be a crisis.

What’s blocking the path?

Evaluate the level of the crisis at hand—if it’s small, don’t let it fester and grow into some unmanageable beast! Why argue about something that is fleeting and has little impact on your day? If your actions or inactions have wronged your partner or created a negative situation, fix it. If you are part of the problem, you must be part of the solution. Don’t wait. Some things may be really annoying, but they might just fall in to that category of “small stuff.” Those should not consume too much time. Refocus your energy on priorities.

Always keep the lines of communication open by offering to listen when there is time for healthy conversation. Avoid times when distractions and emotions are too high. One might feel a need to solve an issue immediately; however, giving a person some space and grace until later can prove beneficial. Let elevated emotions calm and settle before addressing the issue. You may need to state that this is your choice–not that you are walking away and ignoring the problem.

Giving someone your utmost attention shows that you are invested in them which provides value to your relationship. Sometimes I simply state, “Help me understand this better.” Options can be examined through flexible thinking and hopefully the parties involved can once again get around the roadblock and meet in the middle to find common ground.

Here are some tips to help guide you through the times that drive you crazy!

Building a Successful Relationship

For us, everything seems to come down to listening skills. While Cheryl is a great multi-tasker, she has discovered that the brakes need to come on when it’s time to focus and truly listen. Sometimes that is a challenge because her ‘To Do’ list seems forever long. Another important factor, for her is to express her appreciation for the other person sharing their thoughts.

One has to actually outwardly express that appreciation so the other person feels validated. Reading someone’s mind is a challenge and best left to them to express their feelings; likewise expressing to them that you are grateful they shared with you must be ‘visible.’

Improve your conversation skills

Helpful resources for determining what’s blocking the path to a successful relationship & tips for improving: