Improving Relationships

Conventional wisdom says "relationships matter most in life" and then conveniently leaves out that your relationship with yourself is the greatest predictor of your relationship with others.

Whatever your spiritual practice is, if it's not making you more honest in your relationships, it's not working

Providing this acknowledgement for the people you love is something that I think we could all get better at. Validating the other person’s perspective, reacting and explaining your own, maybe sending a smile. Just like the silence in Wong Kar-Wai’s corridor scene, it’s not just about what is said, it’s about what is unsaid: I see you, I’m here for ... See more

1/ Boundaries are not saying no. Or making sure something doesn't happen. Or distancing. Or even letting yourself have wants in the face of others'. A boundary is simply "If you do X, I will do Y." Good boundaries: - don't require anything from the other person - are kind for the other person - bring you closer emotionally (i.e. you find the per... See more

A sign of emotional intelligence is moving from “You made me feel” to “This is how I reacted.” Our emotions aren’t caused by other people’s actions. They’re shaped by our interpretations. Blaming others gives them power over our feelings. Taking responsibility empowers us.