5 Ways to Use Affirmations for Improved Relationships

Affirmations are powerful positive statements. You may be aware of them as a tool for self-improvement or to help you reach your goals. Did you know affirmations can help improve relationships with your husband, family, friends, and colleagues?

By choosing your words carefully and meaningfully, you can improve relationships in every area of your life.

1.  Show Empathy

You can use affirmations to show the other person that you see their feelings and acknowledge them. Affirmations can be used as a component of active listening. Listen to what they are saying without interrupting; when you speak, you reflect on what they said. You acknowledge where they are and give them space to vent, celebrate, or get their message across.

The key to showing empathy is not contradicting or negating their feelings. Do not offer advice or give a contrary opinion. Just stand with them in their space.

2.  Be Authentic

Make sure your affirmations are coming from a place of sincerity. Do not say things you do not mean. Keep your affirming messages to the point and focus on the other person.

Affirmations that are liberal with the truth or speak out of character will undermine your relationship, not build it. Make sure you talk from the heart. And you do not have to use flowery language. Just be nice.

3.  Tell Your Loved Ones They Are Loved

Saying I love you early in a relationship is easy. But as time goes on, it is easy to let endearments slide. Get into the habit of telling your partner, your children, your family, and your friends how much you love them. Please do not take it for granted that they feel valued. Make sure they know it!

4.  Say Thank You

When was the last time you said thank you for a home-cooked meal? Or for proofreading your job application?  Or even for taking the garbage out?

No act of kindness should go unacknowledged. Show your family, friends, and colleagues that you appreciate what they do for you. Affirm their role in your life.

5.  Give Public Praise

Sometimes the best affirmations come in the form of public acknowledgment. Give credit where it is due to your team members, husband, and kids. Show them you are grateful and proud of them. Make it a point to acknowledge the extra effort and exceptional achievements.