Practicing Abundance in Relationships

There’s something worth noting about relationships: when stress levels and daily busyness rise, patience and grace for those closest to us take a sharp nosedive. It’s like a scientific law or something.

Let’s face it, there are times when our relationships fall prey to resentment and conflict.  

When we try to ‘do it all’ without maintaining space for our own wellbeing, our relationships take a hit. Ever noticed a slightly deflated reserve of patience for friends and family that otherwise wouldn’t phase you?  

I know I do.  

Rather than allow our critical mind to take over when we’re feeling overwhelmed, we need to take a step back and appreciate what is present, what is good, what is abundant. Focusing on what is creates room for empathy and compassion to take hold and boosts our relationships instead of driving a wedge between us and those we care about. 

Here is a question for you: how can you practice abundance in our relationships and in doing so, extend more grace?  

Practicing abundance in relationships may look different for you and me, however, here are a few quick ways to beef up our game:

• Choose to believe the absolute best about people when they disappoint or hurt your feelings. Try not to make assumptions about them.

• Intentionally cultivate positive, life-giving thoughts about people throughout the day whether it be a spouse, parent, co-worker, or friend.

• Draw boundaries for yourself both physically and emotionally throughout the season so as not to grow tired and clumsy with those closest to you.  Clear, firm boundaries allow us to love from a far more authentic space in relationships.  

• Be generous and intentional with your words.  I have a friend who always says, “If you see something beautiful in someone, speak it out.”  Our words are powerful and carry gravity in this relational and energetic world we live in, let’s practice abundance instead of scarcity with them.

Miguel Ruiz, author of The Four Agreements, got it right when he succinctly wrote,

“Be impeccable with your word.  Don’t take anything personally.  Don’t make assumptions. Always do your best.”  

Grace is something curious—exquisite.  In my understanding, we don’t earn grace, yet we’ve all received it at some point along the way, without merit and without cause. Perhaps you know someone who extends grace to you in a way that feels expansive and incredibly safe. Draw from that light, create that welcoming space for a weary soul who needs a soft landing pad.  We simply don't know the struggles those around us face, especially when we're wrapped up in our own little world.

Practicing abundance with people isn’t just for them, it is for you and me as well.  Grace is a legacy never forgotten.  Llet’s pay it forward and give the gift of grace, just because.