This is the last part of the 6 part series on healthy relationships. We have gone deep into some of the key principles to building a healthy relationship. You have done a lot of work in these areas and have likely been seeing positive results. If you haven’t done this work yet I highly encourage you to get started. Knowledge without action is a waste of time. This is your life and this is your relationship. You are responsible for making it as great as you want it to be. And, I know you want it to be great. Here are the past parts of the series if you missed them: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, and Part 5.

Today, in the last part of this series we are going to go deeper into the key principle of appreciation.

Appreciation is the last key that I’m talking about, but I would argue it is the most important. I do feel like it needs to be mastered last as it is not a foundational key, it is a next level key. Appreciation needs to become your main focus once you have a good foundation of communication and boundaries. Appreciation, like commitment to lighting the other person up, is a daily practice and habit to bring into your relationship.

Appreciation is the art of seeing the glass half full.

Appreciation is the gift of admiration.

Appreciation is the ability to express your love.

Appreciation is the act of gratitude for the one you love.

To create a habit of appreciation you need to prime your mind to see your partner through the lens of gratitude. So often we focus on each others flaws and everything someone does wrong. It takes effort to change this way of thinking.

Here are some ways to change this way of thinking:

• Start with making a master list of things you appreciate about your partner.
• Challenge yourself everyday to come up with one thing you appreciate about your partner.
• Tell them something you appreciate about them every day.
• Occasionally, write a letter of gratitude and appreciation. This could be for special dates, holidays, or just randomly.

I want to hear how you are going to express more appreciation for your partner in the comments below.

And, if you want more support with your relationship then let’s work together one on one. 

Much love, Danielle