How to nurture your relationships
Our support network — including our family members, close friends and religious or community groups — is an important part of our emotional and physical well-being. But with today’s hectic lifestyles, it’s too easy to let these connections slip to the bottom of our priority list.
Here are some ideas for staying in touch with those who are important to you.
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Commit to a regular date to meet up with your friends. For example, set aside the first Thursday of every month for dinner at a restaurant or potluck at someone’s house. Pre-arranged dates are more likely to be kept.
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Spend quality time with your family. Eat dinner together regularly. Designate one TV-free night a week where you talk, play board games or go for a walk.
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Write letters to far-away loved ones. Email and phone calls may be quicker, but sending a letter in the mail will bring a smile to that special someone. It also gives you some quiet time to reflect while you write.
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Stay in touch with your parents on a regular basis. If they live locally, suggest a traditional Sunday dinner. If they live far away, find a cheap long distance package and set aside a time for a regular phone call.
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Volunteer at your place of worship or community group. Get involved in a special project or fundraising activity. Meeting with people regularly will create stronger bonds.
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Schedule a date night with your partner. Whether you have a weekly movie night where all talk of work is off limits, or a monthly dinner where you share feelings and plans for the future, maintaining a strong basis of communication is a healthy thing.