5 EFFECTIVE STEPS TO SPRING CLEAN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

Spring-cleaning is not just for dusty houses. Your relationships could probably benefit from it too.

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Spring-cleaning your relationships involves evaluating and refreshing your connections with others to promote healthier and more fulfilling interactions with the people in your life, so that you can live your fullest, most satisfying life. We’ve rounded up some ways to get you started:

Personal questions
First, take time to think about you. Where are you thriving? And where are you struggling? Are you invested in beliefs and ideas that are holding you back? Are you holding on to past drama?

Let go of grudges and forgive. Holding on to resentment can weigh you down and negatively affect your current relationships. Practise forgiveness, both of others and yourself. Letting go of past grievances will help foster healthier connections and promote personal growth.

Relationship round-up
Now, take some time to reflect on the different relationships in your life. Consider how each relationship makes you feel, the level of support and positivity it brings, and whether there are any toxic or draining dynamics.

Identify any relationships that have a consistently negative impact on your well-being. These could include people who constantly criticise, manipulate or undermine you, or just bring you down. Evaluate whether these relationships are salvageable or if it may be time to let them go.

On a more positive note, identify the relationships that bring you joy, support and a sense of hope, and bring out the best in you. Nurture these connections. Spend quality time together, engage in meaningful conversations and express gratitude and appreciation for the positive influence these people have on your life.

Note that family members can fall into either category – and can be cut out if they are too toxic.

Communication breakdown
If you have some kind of low-flying issue with someone, it is essential to address this through open and honest communication. Share your feelings, concerns or grievances in a calm and respectful manner.

”ENCOURAGE THE OTHER PERSON TO EXPRESS THEIR PERSPECTIVE AS WELL. WHO KNOWS WHAT THE TWO OF YOU HAVE BOTTLED UP?”

Encourage the other person to express their perspective as well. Who knows what the two of you have bottled up? Seek outside help if needed – in some cases, relationship issues may require professional assistance, such as couples therapy or individual counselling.

Do not hesitate to seek help if you feel stuck or unable to resolve conflicts or issues on your own. While we are talking about communicating openly, establishing healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining positive relationships too.

Clearly articulate your needs, expectations and limits. Respect the boundaries of others and be willing to compromise when necessary, but do not allow yourself to disrespect yourself.

Maintenance check
Remember, spring-cleaning your relationships is an ongoing process. Regularly reassess your connections, communicate openly and make adjustments as needed to create a supportive and positive social network that contributes to your overall well-being.

You deserve to be treated with care and respect, and so do those around you, so remember to keep up your end of the bargain. Don’t lose sight of your own self-improvement. Refresh your life. Read any good books lately?

Do you have a new hobby you want to start, or an old one you’d like to revisit? Is the colour palette, arrangement or general ‘meh-ness’ of your home bringing you down? Do you get 25 stupid newsletters you never read, or pay for subscriptions you don’t use? Is your wardrobe a tad boring? Do you want to get healthier or more active? All these little things can add a spring to your step.

By: Rhynhardt Krynauw
Photorraph: Gallo/Getty Images. Illustration: Shutterstock