Why do many relationships survive life’s traumas but some do not?The death of a child, major injury, acute sickness or intense financial pressure are some of the reasons given for relationship breakdown. Yet, some relationships grow stronger and deeper through similar difficulties. The passion to live in harmony One major characteristic of relationships that thrive in difficulty is their ability

Healthy key relationships don’t just happen. They are built over time, flowing out of a healthy well-being, with intentional interactions to develop relationships. In three blogs we have have explored the following builders of healthy key relationships. 1 Experiencing belonging and connectedness. 2 Proactively construct enduring relationships 3 Communicate effectively and transparently Today we explore the fourth builder: healthy conflict

2 things that build trust: Listening and Affirmation Have you noticed that when you talk with emotionally healthy influencers and leaders you feel listened to, affirmed and encouraged? There is something about the way they consistently listen with empathy and speak with clarity that builds trust. You are made to feel safe and valued and that you belong. There are

The gravity that pulls me under The last blog spoke of buoyancy upthrust. Today we examine the gauges that indicate weight that pushes one under. What pulls you down?I call these things depleters. It took about six months to accumulate the list of things that drain my buoyancy. Here are eight depleters I have identified. Conflict I don’t run from

How is your buoyancy? Buoyancy is the ability to float. Also, it’s the cheerful and optimistic attitude or disposition. It’s your verve, your vim, your va-voom. In floating terms, there are two forces at play, weight that pulls down and buoyancy that is upthrust. One of the 5 key gauges to keep watch on is your emotional well-being. This measure

3 more Gauges Continuing on with Thriving through COVID-19, here are some more thoughts on paying attention to your gauges for well-being. Gauges help you know how you are doing, and reflecting on this allows you to make plans to replenish.You are designed to make a difference. Running out of fuel or oil will stop you. Filling your tank gives

In 43 years of ministry/leadership, I have never seen our world under such pressure. COVID-19 has put everyone under immense pressure. Our families, workplace and our neighbourhoods are caught up in it. Our churches have been prevented from gathering indefinitely. Coupled with all this is the demand to reinvent the way we do church and ministry. Can we effectively minister

How healthy are your key relationships? Healthy key connections are essential for emotional well-being. This is true for all people of influence irrespective of the title of a leadership role. Mums and dads are people of influence. Emotionally healthy people and leaders proactively build enduring relationships. On a recent trip to the country to visit family, at the end of

Flowing on the last Building Healthy Key Connections—Experiencing Belonging and Connectedness. They experience a strong sense of connectedness with their key people. Being secure in themselves, they interact securely with those close to them. They are comfortable being close and getting close. Their connectedness ensures they consistently experience a healthy sense of belonging. Trust exudes from them and their strong