Relationship is Everything: How to Build Long Lasting Bonds

We are social animals and we have a strong bio emotional need for connection. Nurturing and maintaining relationships is vital and it implies connecting with other people on a deeper level rather than superficial.  

Unfortunately, we grow up in a disconnected world, where our bio emotional needs are not met.

In today’s society, we’re disconnected from Nature, from others, from ourselves. This undermines our social and emotional skills and we end up having difficulties in all areas of our lives, failing to recognize or respond to the needs and concerns of others (work, dating/relationships, parenting…). 

As a result, people have difficulty relating positively with themselves and others. Seeing that life is all about relationships, this problem affects either the private and working life. 

You may have difficulty relating to management, peers, colleagues or friends, husband, wife, children. You may have difficulty managing complex issues or heated circumstances. You may view the members of the organization or even your friends in competition with each other and even yourself and, as a result, lack the ability to be collaborative. You may end up in being ineffective in getting answers, or help, or projects/tasks completed because there are not many people you can turn to when needed. 

On the other hand, cultivating and maintaining extensive networks to exchange ideas and get support usually gives birth to relationships that are mutually beneficial and personal friendships, build rapport and keep others in the loop. 

Relationship is everything, remember?

For sure, you know someone who can pick up the phone and call everyone in the organization and know how to get all the answers, solve problems or slash through the red tape to get things done. This is an example of a person who has the skills we are talking about. 

Here are few tips to help you building long lasting bonds:

• Respect others with the respect you demand
• Respect and appreciate individual differences in perspective and background
• Analyze how your relationship with people in your private and working life impact your success
• Ask for feedback on what blocks or hinders your effectiveness at building relationships with other people
• Attend events, get to know people, network
• Meet informally with co-workers and learn about them
• Learn how you may help others and offer your help
• Ask for help when you need it (assistance, counsel, support of any kind)
• Focus on people (and not only on tasks)
• Engage in community activities and connect with leaders
• Develop relationships by attending events and conferences and contacting key people in the industry
• Expand your circle of influence by strengthening bonds and earning trust
• Find a certified Social and Emotional Intelligence Coach who can help you develop and refine your skills 

“Relationships are all there is. Everything in the universe only exists because it is in relationship to everything else. Nothing exists in isolation. We have to stop pretending we are individuals that can go it alone.” — Margaret J. Wheatley

“Social and Emotional Intelligence (SEI) is the ability to be aware of our own emotions, and those of others, in the moment, and to use that information to manage ourselves and our relationships.” ―The Institute for Social and Emotional Intelligence