Relationship Maintenance
This semester I took Speech 20 class which focuses on interpersonal relationships. The twelfth edition of “Looking Out, Looking In” by Ronald B. Adler and Russell F. Proctor is the book that is used in this class. I find that the stuffs I have learned are really practically useful, so now I would like to bring you a small piece that I quote from page 285 of this book. Hopefully, you may consider using it somehow.
Just as gardens need tending, cars need tune-ups, and bodies need exercise, relationships need ongoing maintenance to keep them successful and satisfying. […]
[…] Researchers have identified five strategies that couples use to keep their interaction satisfying.
- Positivity: Keeping the relational climate polite and upbeat, and also avoiding criticism. […]
- Openness: Talking directly about the nature of the relationship and disclosing your personal needs and concerns. […]
- Assurances: Letting the other person know-both verbally and nonverbally- that he or she matters to you, and that you are committed to the relationships.
- Social networks: Communication with others can provide support and relief that helps relational partners understand and appreciate one another. Friends, family, and co-workers also provide companionship that takes pressure off the relationship to satisfy all the partners’ needs.
- Sharing tasks: Helping one another take care of life’s chores and obligations make life easier and reaffirms the value of the relationship.
Every type of relationship can benefit from these maintenance strategies […].
