Finding ways to make relationships flourish
This would - I think - be the introduction to how relationships of all kinds work and flourish. It might begin with the BT Talkworks booklet or whatever modern equivalent we can find with its simple and delightful description of how to have a good conversation. The nearest I can find on BT for now is to click here for their much fuller stuff on communication. And you can get a downloaded Communication Cookbook here for primary school children's learning.
Communication is not just about exchanging messages and words. Non-verbal things are really important to how communication works. Posture, appearance, movements, eye contact, tone of voice, where you are, how you feel, reactions you aren't in control of, and hopes, fears and history that give special meanings to what is being said.
When communication and relationships go well, we don't need to think about them. But knowing what makes them flourish is very important to know when we try to get problems sorted. A full and happy relationship and life doesn't just happen - it has to be created and worked at.
A lot of people have researched and written about how people find different kinds of happiness, joy and fulfilment. There's a lot written about on high functioning individuals, couples and families, and also good ways in work settings.
Because we had it readily available, a lot of what we have first put on this section is kinds of self-help for flourishing couples and families that Karen Holford has composed and can take credit for. These resources can be used for self-help, or may be used by professionals in helping clients too.
There are lots of other websites with more material on them about creating good relationships (eg Barbara Frederickson at www.positivityratio.com; or for adults/parents in helping children to flourish at www.handsonscotland.co.uk)
Communication is not just about exchanging messages and words. Non-verbal things are really important to how communication works. Posture, appearance, movements, eye contact, tone of voice, where you are, how you feel, reactions you aren't in control of, and hopes, fears and history that give special meanings to what is being said.
When communication and relationships go well, we don't need to think about them. But knowing what makes them flourish is very important to know when we try to get problems sorted. A full and happy relationship and life doesn't just happen - it has to be created and worked at.
A lot of people have researched and written about how people find different kinds of happiness, joy and fulfilment. There's a lot written about on high functioning individuals, couples and families, and also good ways in work settings.
Because we had it readily available, a lot of what we have first put on this section is kinds of self-help for flourishing couples and families that Karen Holford has composed and can take credit for. These resources can be used for self-help, or may be used by professionals in helping clients too.
There are lots of other websites with more material on them about creating good relationships (eg Barbara Frederickson at www.positivityratio.com; or for adults/parents in helping children to flourish at www.handsonscotland.co.uk)