Ways to Improve and Strengthen the Relationship with Your Family
There are many different types of families, but the one you were born into is probably the most important one in your life. Your family will shape you, teach you things, and inspire you throughout your life. However, just like every other relationship, family bonds need to be nurtured in order to be strong and long-lasting. With that in mind, here’s how you can improve relationships in your family.
How to improve the relationship with your siblings
Siblings tend to have a special kind of love/hate dynamics, and there is nothing wrong with that when kids are young. However, as people get older, many of them drift apart wishing they could be closer to their brother or sister. After all, you’ve spent an important part of your life together, and after the bond you have with your parents and children, it’s the strongest one you could have; it’s only natural that you want that bond to remain strong throughout your lives. So, what can you do?
For starters, let go of your childhood. Don’t feel guilty about all the times you got your sibling into trouble, and don’t resent them for stealing your clothes so many times. Second, show interest in their lives. For example, if they are auditioning for a movie role or running a marathon, show up to support them. Finally, forget about typecasting. Don’t be convinced that you already know everything about them, and instead, try to learn all the things that you don’t know.
How to improve the relationship with your dad
Dads don’t usually show their emotions as much as moms do, but it doesn’t mean they love you any less. They simply have a different way of expressing their love, which is often more about what they do than what they say. So, if you want to get closer to your dad, the first thing you need to do is find time for him. Find an activity you both enjoy, and do it together. Gifts also play an important role, so if there’s Father’s Day coming up, you can find many great Father’s Day gifts for your dad.
Finally, dads like to feel useful, so if there’s anything you need help with, whether it is choosing a new car or preparing barbeque the same way your dad does, he will be more than happy to give you a piece of advice. So, make him feel special and needed, and your relationship will last.
How to improve the relationship with your mom
Moms are the happiest when their children are happy, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do for her. Happiness is supposed to go both ways, and moms work very hard for their kids, so make sure to put some effort into making your mom happy. For example, if she doesn’t have to get up for work, let her sleep in and get some rest. If you’re old enough to prepare eggs and veggies yourself, make her a breakfast in bed as well. Do your chores, and if you can, do some of hers too. Moreover, give her a lot of affection; for your mom, you’re growing up too fast, so every kiss and hug you can give her can make her day.
How to improve the relationship with your child
When it comes to making your children happy, the best thing you can do is support them and show them that you understand them. If they are young, pay attention to what they are interested in, and encourage those skills. One day, it could become a useful hobby they are passionate about or even a lucrative career choice.
If they are teenagers, you might need to find the balance between giving them enough alone time and spending enough time with them. It’s usually the most difficult period for children, so talk to them about their issues, and try to build a relationship of trust. This way, they’ll know that they can talk to you about anything and that you’ll always be there for them.
There are many ways to strengthen the bond with your family. Of course, this goes both ways, so if a family member is too busy at the moment, or not in a mood, be patient. Don’t look at it as a task you need to finish, but rather as a process. Even after you manage to get closer to your parents, kids, or siblings, there are always ways to keep improving that relationship. Therefore, arm yourself with patience, persistence, and lots of love, and you will definitely be able to say that you have a loving family.
About the Author:
Stella Van Lane is a Sydney based writer and Home Design Consultant.
Image Credits: pixabay.com