16 Nov Gratitude in Relationships

This article was written by Recovery Help Now’s, Vanessa Blaxland, MFTi.

At one time or another we have all searched for ways to improve our relationships?  Sometimes we try to improve our relationships through trying to have better sex and intimacy, better communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and many many other ways of developing healthier and satisfying relationships.  However sometimes I think we think too big.  A lot of times a simple act can have a powerful impact on our relationships.

This simple act I am talking about is gratitude.  Showing gratitude can significantly affect many aspects of our relationship in a positive way.  Think about how many times you go without saying thank you or acknowledging what someone else has done for you.  Or better yet, think about how many times you are not thanked or acknowledged by others.   Now think about how a simple thank you would have changed your experience.

Showing gratitude can easily change you and your partner’s experience of your relationship for the better.  Showing gratitude can make your relationship stronger by making you and your partner feel more connected to each other and more satisfied with the relationship.  This effect will trickle down into your attitude toward your partner because when we feel appreciated we are more likely to have a better attitude and be more loving toward other people.  When gratitude sparks a better attitude in yourself you may feel an emotional boost of positive energy and with this positive change in attitude you will be able to see things differently and instead of always focusing on what isn’t working in your relationship you can now start focusing on what is.  Remember a little bit of gratitude can go a long way.