By: Michelle Towers
Have you ever thought about why some people seem to have such successful lives, while others appear to have a harder time creating fulfillment and happiness?
- My husband is a very accomplished food salesman. While other salespeople struggle to maintain their business, my husband continues to gain more territory. His customers could buy their green beans from just about anybody; so why do they prefer to buy from him?
- During my engineering career, I had a great boss. Although she was very competent at her job, she wasn't what you would call an expert in the field we worked in. However, every project she was put in charge of succeeded. Over the years she continued to rise higher and higher on the corporate ladder of success. How did she do it?
- I know of a married couple who, after more than 30 years of being together, still enjoy each other's company. They do many things together, and it is apparent that they are best friends, after all these years. What is their secret?
Actually, these people share many different characteristics. For example, I happen to know that they all made the commitment to work hard and make sacrifices to achieve success. But because I know them personally, I recognize yet another common denominator - they all understand and utilize the power of relationships.
Let's face it. Without healthy, loving relationships, life stinks.
When it comes down to it, the condition of our relationships determines the level of success we experience in life.
Good relationships are founded on trust, integrity, character, kindness and respect. To produce fruitful results in our lives, strong healthy relationships are a must. After all, what good is success on the job, but others don't like working with you? What's the point of having the best-behaved kids on the block if they obey only out of obligation, and they don't want to spend time with you? Why have lots of money in the bank, but no one to enjoy life with?
Just as a tree must have strong roots in order for the trunk to grow healthy, our relationships must also be strong at a level that is deeper than can be seen. Before we are able to create strong relationships with others, two other relationships must first be firmly established. The first is with God, someone who is higher (and more important) than you. Relating to God provides your purpose and reason for being on this earth.
Next, you must have a solid relationship with yourself.
Yes, I did say yourself. Do you truly like yourself? Do you treat yourself with respect and insist that others do the same? Do you live your life with integrity and character, so that you maintain a sense of inner peace?
Coaching tip: Consider these questions and write down your responses: How would your life be enhanced if your relationships were stronger and healthier? What can you do starting today to make things better?
Take a step in that direction today and begin to make every day count!
For one-on-one coaching, contact Michele Towers at Michele@coaching4newdirections.com
Or visit my New Directions Coaching website.