Research has repeatedly shown that gratitude, and learning to appreciate people we are in relationships with, can actually make our relationships better. We can - in a sense - learn to be happier, more satisfied and more content in our relationships. So what are you grateful for? A mom or dad who still sends you birthday cards? A roommate who empties the dishwasher or asks if you need anything at the grocery store when she/he runs out on errands? A partner who kisses you goodnight, or who kisses you before leaving for work? Someone who remembers what type of wine you like, or who offers to see a movie that you want to see (even though you know that he or she could care less about that movie)? Someone who cooks dinner for you, or with you? Children who give you warmer hugs than you ever imagined were possible (or a partner/spouse who looks after your amazing children, and helps you to raise them, in spite of life’s daily challenges?)

Within reason, this can also help turn negative thoughts into positive ones (I say "within reason" because I certainly don’t recommend trying to justify really bad behavior, such as emotional or physical abuse, or harsh criticism). If your kids’ messiness is driving you crazy, consider how fortunate you are to have children to pick up after. If your partner talks too long on the phone with friends or family, and you feel rejected, try to focus on how fortunate you are to have a partner who values friends or family.

Life is generally good, and in most instances, people are 99% full of goodness too. Try to look for a little of that goodness, kindness, or compassion, and it just may change your outlook and your relationship.

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 20th, 2008 at 10:55 am and is filed under Love and relationships. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.