Happy Fall!   

We all live in a world with lots of materialism.   Advertisements are all around us to purchase something on the internet.  Fads keep us buying new stuff until we are overwhelmed with possessions and wonder how in the world did I get so much!   In the meantime, we are losing relationships and being fully connected to one another.

Below are five ways to improve and maintain strong connections in your relationships:

1. **Active Listening:**
– Set aside distractions.
– Listen with genuine interest.
– Reflect on what the other person says before responding.

2. **Quality Time:**
– Schedule regular one-on-one time.
– Engage in activities you both enjoy.
– Create technology-free zones for deeper interaction.

3. **Respect and Boundaries:**
– Communicate and respect each other’s boundaries.
– Discuss and agree on important boundaries.
– Be mindful of personal space and privacy.

4. **Effective Conflict Resolution:**
– Address conflicts calmly and constructively.
– Focus on the issue, not on attacking each other.
– Find mutually satisfying solutions.

5. **Acts of Kindness:**
– Show appreciation with small gestures.
– Celebrate achievements and milestones together.
– Provide support during challenging times.

By implementing these action items, you can actively work on improving your relationships and fostering a deeper sense of connection with the people who matter to you.

In today’s podcast, two Fictional books are suggested.  They are Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and Keeping Faith by Jodi Picoult as suggestions for your winter evenings.   Hope you enjoy them.

Take the first step, it may put you on the Escalator of Success!