Interpersonal Relationships

"I am the greatest." We may have laughed when we heard Muhammed Ali tell the world what he thought of himself, and with such conviction. But we knew he believed in himself. And we each need to know that "I am the greatest." Learning to love ourselves is a process. There are affirmations and behavior to reinforce this, which will ultimately result in loving ourselves. When we can truly love ourselves, then we will be free to love others.
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You can enjoy special rewards for being part of a family. These include friendship love and closeness, sharing for support and understanding, and acceptance of each other just as we are. However, the needs of family members change constantly. Most changes are natural to growing older and wiser together. Honest communication and careful listening can help assure that your family stays in tune, sharing maximum love and support.
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One in four parents raise a child alone. Of these single parents, 90 percent are women. From their experiences, information about how to cope with this challenge is becoming more readily available. As a single parent, you'll probably need extra understanding, patience and cooperation. In turn, you're likely to develop a new sense of independence and self-confidence.
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Everyone is irritable or indecisive at times. But some people are so difficult that they make others' lives and work a strain. Dealing with difficult people is easier when you learn to recognize some common personality types. Then you can develop coping skills for dealing with each without trying to change them.
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Parents may wonder why their children should have to worry about stress. But today even kindergartners face pressures their parents may not know of. Academic and social competition, divorced parents and confusion over sex and drugs are sources of stress for children who are too young to deal adequately with such things.
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You may think that couples should get along all the time. But couples who learn how to argue successfully actually have better relationships. Arguments needn't be bitter or aggressive; in fact, the following tips can show you how to "fight right" and strengthen your relationship.
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Adolescence can be a trying period for both parent and teenager. Many dilemmas--the wide variety of choices, intense pressures to succeed, and the availability of drugs and alcohol--can complicate a teenager's life. With time and patience, you can assure that this period is rich and rewarding for your family.
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No matter how much we love our children, raising them is a demanding and often stressful job. It can bring frustration along with joy. To cope, we refer to our own childhood experiences. For some, this leads to child abuse.
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Of all the types of abuse, emotional child battering can be the most difficult to determine. However, the law recognizes it as a crime. Mental injury is illegal when caused by the person responsible for the welfare of a child under the age of 18.
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The other half of speaking well is listening carefully. In fact, if you want to be heard listen! Family and friends are more likely to turn to someone they know will listen to them. A good listener:
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The adolescent years are tough on everyone—parents and teens alike. Through trial and error, our sons and daughters seek their independence. We learn how to let go.
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Do You Know The Score? Do people seem to enjoy being with you, or do they head the other way when you enter the room? Building relationships begins with the signals you give to show others you care about them.
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