If we are clear about what we feel – and what we need in relationships, our relationships tend to be better. At a basic level, having healthy relationships means the presence of positive emotions and the absence of negative emotions as we spend time with others. Therefore, creating positive emotions within relationships is a key factor. Healthy relationships and physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being go hand-in-hand. Healthy relationships fuel the presence of positive emotions and decrease the likelihood of negative emotions thus promoting well-being in heart, body, mind, and soul. Yet, many of us do not take the time to work on making our relationships better.
The “I Can Relate” definition used for well-being focuses on building and maintaining healthier, deeper, and more satisfying relationships. Four steps that are easy to learn include: 1) Observing situations without evaluation 2) Naming and expressing our feelings 3) Valuing our needs; and then 4) Responding with empathy. These steps, along with tips related to increasing self-awareness, understanding anxiety and developing empathy are concepts that can be learned and skills that can be developed. Using the method within a workshop gets participants to practice the relationships skills of observing situations, naming feelings, identifying needs, and empathizing — without even being aware of the learning process!