You can always find new ways to improve your relationships and strengthen your connections with the people you love. Sometimes it’s as simple as finding the right words to express yourself. Check out these idioms that will surely improve your relationships — even with your mother-in-law.
Speak the Same Language
As an idiom, if you speak the same language, it means you understand each other and connect based on common preferences. No matter who it is, it helps when you feel the same way about something. It certainly is easier to get closer when you have similar philosophies.
Run With the Hare and Hunt With the Hounds
One person can’t serve all your needs. You should have different people in your life who fill different spaces in your heart. Your closest friends might celebrate with you, your significant other could support your passions, and your mom lets you complain about all of the rest while you eat her food. Know which people fill your needs, and be wise about how you mix them.
Build Bridges
Sometimes the hardest place is stuck in the middle. If you’re always playing middleman between two people, try building bridges to help them find common ground. If they’re focused on what they both like instead of arguing, you can all have a good time, even if you’re not all best pals.
Good Fences Make Good Neighbors
You don’t have to be close with someone to have a positive relationship with them. The best way to improve things between the two of you may be to establish clear boundaries. Tell the person you don’t want them coming over unannounced, or that the two of you have to do something other than complain when you’re together. Just make sure to reinforce those fences to avoid trouble later.
Know Them Inside Out
If you have a best friend, chances are you know them inside out — in other words, really well. If you want someone to know you truly care about them, pay attention to their likes, dislikes, and opinions. Put in the effort to show them how much they mean to you. You’ll be attached at the hip before you know it!
Think the World of Them
Everyone appreciates a compliment. How many times have you met someone who says, “Oh, your friend thinks the world of you”? It feels good, right? When you have a positive image of someone, share it with the world. It’s a great way to bolster your relationship and make sure they know you think highly of them.
Keep Them at Arm’s Length
It’s okay if you can’t get along with someone. Not all relationship improvements happen by getting closer to someone. Sometimes the best thing you can do is distance yourself. If you keep someone at arm’s length, you try to avoid them when you can, which can be better for everyone involved. After all, your relationship with yourself is important, too.
Photo credit: Aubrey Rose Odom/ Unsplash