How to build and maintain strong relationships in a busy world

From time to time, I write posts about topics that I am currently working on, and this is one of them. Recently, I have been thinking about the state of my relationships and friendships over the past years. The people in my life have been companions, advisors, cheerleaders, and supporters on my journey. One of my latest realizations is that I am missing human connections and need to make a change.
 
In this blog post, we will discuss five strategies to build and maintain healthy relationships with people we love and care about.
 
#1: Think about the relationships that are important to you
We all have people who have played a crucial role in our lives. Especially at times when you are yearning for more connection, it helps to think about the people you already have on your side. My circle is very small, and I can tell you the significant role that everyone plays in my life. Most of them have been my friends for a very long time.
 
Questions to consider

• Who are the people that play an important role in your life?
• How have they influenced your life?

 
#2: Reflect on what is working or not working in your relationships
Now that you have a list of the relationships you care about, now is an excellent time to reflect on the strengths and areas of improvement. It can be very easy to take our relationships for granted and not think about what we can do to improve them.
 
Questions to consider

• What are your favorite aspects of your relationships? 
• What aspects of your relationships don't bring you joy?

 
#3: Analyze what is standing in the way of you building the types of relationships you want and need
As we get busy or go through life, we can neglect the relationships that matter. One of the lessons that I have learned through my reflection on my relationships is that I am not dedicating enough time to my relationships. Many things have a hold on my time in this phase in my life, sadly leading to me dedicating less time to connect with people around me.
 
Questions to consider

• What have you done recently to maintain healthy relationships?
• How have you neglected some of your relationships?

 
#4: Make a list of changes you want to make
Healthy relationships take being intentional and work. We can make some changes to have the best relationships with the people we care about.
 
Questions to consider

• What three things do you want to do differently in your existing relationships?
• What new connections do you want to cultivate?

 
#5: Make commitments and take action
Now is a great time to invest in your relationships and make the changes you identified. The truth is we will always be busy; it will take us making time for relationships with people that are close to us.
 
Questions to consider

• Who will you spend some time with over the next two weeks?
• How will you make time for your relationships?

 
Final Thoughts
The people around us contribute significantly to our mental and emotional well-being. I realized I do not have a solid social network in the US. Although I've been living here for seven years, most of my close friends and support network are from my time in Germany and Nigeria. The truth is that I don't make time and have become less social. My task over the next weeks is to reconnect with people I care about and plan for more opportunities to meet new people.
 
Call to Action
Tell three people in your life how much you appreciate them over the next two weeks.