Welcome Summer!
Summertime means fun in the sun. Many of us keep busy with fun activities outdoors. This time of year allows people and families to experience more time together. However, more time may not always feel like it builds a deeper connection.
Sometimes, the increased time together can highlight differences, unspoken tensions, or simply bring out the stress of a fast-paced lifestyle. But within this season lies an opportunity—a chance to pause, breathe, and intentionally nurture the relationships that matter most.
Connection gives purpose and meaning to our lives
Some people build healthy relationships effortlessly, while others struggle with it. People that thrive at this have a strong sense of worthiness, love, and belonging.
This inner sense of being “enough” creates a strong foundation that helps people show up more fully in relationships. When you feel secure in who you are, it becomes easier to trust, listen, and connect on a deeper level. Healthy connections don’t mean perfection—they mean presence, understanding, and care.
Here are ten intentions that help build positive relationships:
1. Have the courage to be imperfect.
Perfection is not a requirement for connection. In fact, trying to appear perfect can create distance. Allow yourself to show up as you are, even when you feel messy or unsure. That honesty invites others to do the same, creating a space of mutual acceptance and trust.
2. Have compassion to be kind to yourself first and then to others.
Self-compassion isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you treat yourself gently, you’re less likely to react defensively or critically in relationships. This kindness ripples outward. It helps us extend more patience and empathy to others, especially when things get tough.
3. Connection is a result of authenticity. Be willing to let go of who you think you should be, in order to be who you are.
So often we wear masks to protect ourselves—pretending, performing, or holding back our true selves. But true connection requires vulnerability. When we show up honestly, we attract relationships that are rooted in truth and acceptance, rather than performance and approval-seeking.
4. Vulnerability is necessary. Be willing to invest in a relationship that may or may not work out.
This kind of courage can feel terrifying, but it’s also freeing. Vulnerability means putting your heart on the line, knowing that love and connection aren’t guaranteed. Yet it is through this bravery that we experience the most meaningful, transformative relationships.
5. You are imperfect. Wired for struggle & you are worthy of love and belonging.
There’s nothing you need to do to earn this worth—it’s already yours. Embracing this truth allows you to step into relationships with confidence, without constantly proving your value. Your imperfections are not barriers; they are bridges to shared human experiences.
6. Let yourself be seen.
Let others see your joy, your fears, your passions, and your hopes. Allowing yourself to be truly seen can be scary, but it is also where intimacy lives. Connection thrives in the space where we feel fully witnessed and accepted.
7. Love with your whole heart even if there is no guarantee.
Wholehearted love is bold—it requires you to give without needing control over the outcome. This doesn’t mean ignoring boundaries; it means choosing to show up with an open heart, knowing that love is a gift in itself, not a transaction.
8. Practice gratitude.
Gratitude helps you notice what’s working, what’s beautiful, and what’s worth cherishing. It shifts your focus from scarcity to abundance, and creates space for appreciation to blossom in your relationships.
9. Believe that you are enough.
You don’t need to be more charming, more successful, or more anything. You, just as you are, are worthy of meaningful connection. This belief roots you in confidence, helping you show up in relationships with calm and clarity.
Make the most of your quality time this summer.
Let this season be a reminder that relationships take intention—but also that they’re worth the effort. Use this time to slow down, reflect, and lean into the beauty of connection. You got this!
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