Increasing In Value

The world is divided into two parts: things that become more valuable with time and things that diminish in value with time. Houses are an example of things that increase in value . This is one reason why so many strive to own one and then hang onto it as long as they can. On the other hand, cars decrease in value on a daily basis. The moment any of us drive off the lot with our new four-wheeled traveling machine, its value begins a never-ending drop. Once we are on the road with this new purchase, the chances of our ever being able to resell it for what we spent to purchase it are almost non-existent.   

Sticking with these two categories, I would place relationships in the column of things that increase in value. I understand we all have relationships which either may not be all that great or meaningful. But it is my contention that even those increase in value simply because of the dimension they add to our lives in terms of our growth, experience and overall well being. Let's be honest, even people we actively do not like require an investment in time and energy. Negative relationships require nurturing, too. Looking back, I have had a few of those and I admit often times they were just as challenging as ones I actually enjoyed.

One key ingredient that contributes greatly to helping all relationships increase in value is effective communication. Being honest and open does wonders for helping a connection with another escalate in worth. Even when you might be feeling upset or negative toward another, sharing those feelings in a straightforward and respectful manner is akin to making a deposit in a bank account. And then  there is the matter of actively listening to what that other might say. The two - respectful speaking and active listening - make our initial investment into any relationship ever more valuable. And, as an added bonus, it also does a great deal toward our own self improvement.