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<\/a>We all are in relationships whether we realize that or not. They need not be marital or romantic, but may include co-workers, neighbors, and family members. Relationships are dynamic. In their constant state of change, sometimes things go bad and then get worse. Before you know it, a little issue can become a relation-threatening issue. Here is my secret tool and you will quickly note that it’s based for couples, but it doesn’t have to be. Better yet, it has always worked. It\u2019s called the Two-Party Daily Gratitude Journal<\/em><\/strong> (TPDGJ).<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The Two-Party Daily Gratitude Journal is just what its name implies. You and the other person simply enter something daily (about five things) that you are grateful for regarding that other person. Feel free to use your imagination. Be creative, for if you are authentically coming from your heart, there can be no wrong or bad entries. This is not a secret or a diary, but rather short, brief or a statement meant to be shared with that person. You can enter your gratitude points anytime during the day, but you both review them as you close the day. It\u2019s a great conversation starter – and potentially more. For intimate couples the TPDGJ may be a superb way to end the day. It fosters intimacy and makes for improved communication, which builds better relationships.<\/p>\n
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For example, you might say that you are grateful for the time spent, the look or gesture extended, the gift (smile, touch), the service or support provided, how they made you feel or whatever they do or are that means something to you. This is meant to be uniquely personal without any negativity or judgment. Then you both read the other\u2019s entry. And remember, no bad looks or challenging gestures, simply soak their comments in. A simple thank you might be okay or you might ask for a clarification, but keep it strictly loving and non-threatening.<\/p>\n
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This can be and should become a ritual. And it can have even more impact when there is stress or anger brewing, so don’t just do it when you are both in a great mood. Remember there is good in everyone – especially your partner, so look for it and write it down.<\/p>\n
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By focusing upon that which we have to be grateful, we attract more of the same. This snowballs into an avalanche of good things that you will start to attract to you and your relationship. It also can spur an “ah ha moment” that knocks down any walls that might have been building between you.<\/p>\n
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The Universe contains all that we are quick to judge as good and bad, right and wrong. There is no escaping that. Our choice is to focus upon the good. This is more than a \u201cPollyanna\u201d tactic; it is a powerfully cogent choice that will influence every aspect of your life. The choice is yours and it always has been, with this being a tool to keep you aligned with your best self and in doing so, raise the vibration level of your partner too. After all great relationships are based upon being in synch with each other.<\/p>\n
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