All relationships, whoever they are between, have certain features in common - trust, self-disclosure and communication. Being aware of these features makes it easier for you to form and maintain satisfactory relationships. Some relationships develop towards increased intimacy while others are quite happily maintained at a less personal level. Although relationships vary in their emotional depth, it is rare for one person to know more than a handful of people very closely - for one thing there isn't enough time. We all differ in our ability to meet others' needs, and it is partly because people's needs change that relationships may become confrontational, deteriorate and end. It is useful to know that no one person or relationship will meet all your needs, so it is important not to expect it to. Communication is a feature of all relationships, but the more emotionally involved you are with someone, the greater the need for effective communication between you. In order to ensure that your personal needs are being met, and that neither of you is feeling hurt or neglected, it is important to include conversations about your own feelings and the relationship you are having. Talking about your experiences can help. Contact me on tel: 01291 630192 or mob: 07826 524222, or if you prefer you can email me at: akitafowler@gmail.com |