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BUILDING LASTING RELATIONSHIPS
The most important element in
building strong relationships is learning to think like the other person.
In other words, the more you are like them, the more they will like you. So
put yourself in their shoes every once in a while.
There are some people you have
known for a very long time who you consider life-long friends. They accept
you no matter what you’ve done or said and value your basic goodness and
person. Others are people you’ve known for a while, but not seen or had in
your life (high school reunions come to mind). Yet, when you see them, it’s
almost like no time has passed at all and you pick up the conversation where
you left off.
Sometimes they are people you
have worked with. When you were with them every day, they were strong
confidantes and when you both were no longer there or saw each other only
occasionally, conversation wasn’t as vivacious, but still the close feeling
was there.
Look around you—who’s always
there for you? You may be surprised at the diversity of people you know and
enjoy. Again, they probably include people from 50 years ago and some you
just met last week. Isn’t that great?
Here are some pointers you can
use to help build these lasting relationships:
1.
Talk about the person. Everyone likes to talk about themselves so
ask questions about their hobbies, family, travel or work.
2.
Listen to others and match their styles.
3.
Pay it forward without expecting payback. People become loyal to you
when you support them.
4.
Stay in touch—through letters, notes, email, cards—or whatever works
for you.
5.
Be terrific to be around. Learn what it takes to lift people’s
spirits and create synergy.
6.
Get known for your integrity and values. It doesn’t take much to
lose credibility.
7.
Be grateful and look at events as a blessing even when they don’t go
the way you want.
It’s very difficult to set limits
when the person involved is important to you. Just remember, you make a
difference is people’s lives by how you live yours. When you stand up for
yourself, others won’t take advantage of you. Your beliefs and wishes may
not be popular, but you must learn to live your values to people will
respect your words and thoughts.
A lasting relationship gives you
comfort and strength. It is what life is all about. There is nothing more
valuable or exciting. |
