By Gbenga Emiloju (DMPII)
Every meaningful and productive relationship must be established on (1) Purpose, nurture with (2) Principles and be guided with the right (3) Value.
Failure to correctly understand these 3 components of relationships management skills and accurately apply them in your relationships can set you up for frustration, failure and disappointment.
Let us explore these 3 components and important factors one after the other:
*I. PURPOSE OF RELATIONSHIP: *
• Every relationship must be established on purpose
• The purpose of the relationship must be clearly defined and well-stated
• When the purpose of a relationship is not known, abuse becomes inevitable
• Relationship without a definite purpose is a wasted adventure
• The purpose of the relationship should be prioritized above other things
• The purpose must justify the essence of the relationship
• Most purposeless relationships end up as useless relationships
*II. PRINCIPLES OF RELATIONSHIP:*
• Affordability: Parties in the relationship should be able to afford the demands therein
• Capability: The relationship must be able to fulfill its purpose
• Durability: Meaningful and productive relationship should be able to stand the test of time
• Accountability: There is need for both parties to be accountable to each other
• Credibility: Both parties in the relationship must believe in the outcome of the relationship
• Adaptability: Parties must be able to cope and get along with the terms and conditions of the relationship
• Flexibility: A relationship is not a war. There must be a degree of flexibility in relationship, except for certain non-negotiables.
*III. CORE VALUES OF RELATIONSHIP:*
• Trust: Trust in relationships is built through consistent actions, honesty, and reliability. Any relationship that lacks trust cannot last.
• Respect: Respect in relationships means valuing each other’s individuality, opinions and boundaries.
• Appreciation: Parties must at all times recognize and appreciate the efforts, sacrifices and commitment of the other partner no matter how little or small.
• Forgiveness: Conflict of interest is inevitable in any relationship. Letting go of hurts toward other party can help you move forward without holding onto past grievances.
• Communication: Effective communication is an important factor for sustainable relationships. Communication in relationships means sharing your thoughts, feelings, and ideas with other party.
• Loyalty: Loyalty in relationships means choosing your partners above others, supporting them, and working together to achieve the goals of the relationship.
• Openness: Openness in a relationship involves listening to your partner’s ideas, feelings, and needs. Openness can encourage honesty, deepen emotional intimacy, and help you grow and adapt together.
*NOTE:*
There can never be any meaningful and productive relationships until the purpose, principles, and the value of such relationships are well-defined, and properly-understood by both parties.
I Wish You Great Week
