Relationship Traits

There is a set of traits that enhance any relationship. If these are present the relationship is likely to become stronger and more satisfying to both. These traits are:

  • Trust: Knowing that you can count on the other person when you need them is trust. It builds slowly and can be easily lost if trust is violated. A strong sense of trust is essential for close relationships
  • Honesty: A relationship without honesty would have no trust. This would not be enjoyable or lasting.
  • Respect: This is the ability to show that you value the other person, especially when you do not agree on something.
  • Cooperation: This means that you work together for mutual good. When you make decisions you consider what is best for both of you, not just one. Cooperation is obvious on a team that is successful. They call it teamwork.
  • Compromise: This is the willingness to give up some things in order to allow both of you to be comfortable with the situation. This is a measure of your care for the other person. A relationship that has this "give and take" will be stronger.
  • Acceptance: When you accept the other person as they are and accept their right to their ideas and opinions you strengthen the relationship.
  • Dependability: Knowing that a person will do what they say and act consistently is a sign of a close relationship.
  • Loyalty: This is when a person demonstrates their friendship, even when you are not there to see it.
  • Empathy: When you just know how a person is feeling about something it is called empathy. Close friends know each other well enough to have empathy.

If we fail to learn how to develop and maintain good relationships with friends we will not be prepared to move further on the Social Cycle of Life. We will have a difficult time forming those mature relationships that can lead to marriage. This could be some of the reason that the divorce rate is so high. Knowing how to develop good friendships is not only satisfying now but is also important preparation for the future.

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