Who are you craving a deeper relationship with?

A full, satisfying life is built on relationships. Some we invest in continuously with a tremendous amount of thought and care.

Others, we wind up and then kind of let them go where they may. The depth of the connection becomes a byproduct of how much time spent together and common interests versus an intentional choice with some planning and effort behind it.

Setting our closest relationships aside for a moment (such as a spouse, child, or parent), reflect on the range of relationships you maintain. Think about your friendships, social or online acquaintances, siblings, colleagues, bosses, clients, mentors, etc.

With this circle in mind, ask yourself in today’s journal prompt*:

Who are you craving a deeper relationship with?

(This is one of the times when the “why” doesn’t matter. We seek and build relationships for all sorts of reasons and feelings that defy strategy and logic.)

With someone in mind, what next steps might you take?

This part takes some guts.

Creating deeper relationships first requires us to set aside any stories we tell ourselves on how relationships “should” develop. (Opportunities are missed when we assume it’ll just happen if it’s meant to. In fact, there’s no right way.)

Next, we have to acknowledge our vulnerability and be willing to make the first move. In doing so, we open ourselves up to a range of possible responses from delight to disappointment.

It’s still worth. Of course, you already know that.

Understanding, then investing in where we’d like more depth and connection is a path to a more fulfilling life.

“THE GOLDEN RULE IS OF NO USE WHATSOEVER UNLESS YOU REALIZE THAT IT IS YOUR MOVE.” - FRANK CRANE