When you shine, you’re not the only one who benefits. These notes share a common, simple message: shine, and you’ll give others a reason to shine too. Take care of yourself, and you send an invitation for others to do the same. Stronger relationships are forged from the loving acts we each take, privately within ourselves and out in the world.

“The presence of your love is vital for the health and wellbeing of all life on our beautiful planet.” — Harold W. Becker

Joy expands or contracts in proportion to how connected you feel in your relationships.

Cultivating stronger relationships doesn’t have to mean you overextend yourself. You can’t be everything to everyone, after all. If you know you could be enjoying closer connections, start with those closest to you right now. Start with one person, and tend to them like a flower in your garden. 

Read these notes to inspire your relationships — with your best friend or a perfect stranger. Treat them like they're an essential ingredient for a meaningful life.

Stronger Relationships Begin with You: 5 Messages to Inspire Every Connection

1. Take care of yourself, because it’s necessary.

Your own acceptance can empower others to be themselves and respect other views. When we elevate ourselves, we elevate others. That’s how self-care is anything but selfish. It’s a force of light for everyone.

Taking time to connect with the still place inside of you is one of the most loving acts you can commit, and from a deeper wellspring of love you can then give.

2. Swap stories with open-mindedness, empathy, and honesty.

Stories can heal and connect when shared with those things in mind. When you meet up with friends, share openly, and practice vulnerability. Listen to them with an open mind and full heart. Friendships deepen when there’s shared self-disclosure.

3. What others hold on to isn’t necessarily yours to keep. 

This is a powerful reminder when you’re tempted to interpret things personally that aren’t meant for you to carry.

4. You represent you.

If someone respects you, respect them. If someone disrespects you, respect yourself in a way that does not disrespect them. Not allowing the actions of others to decrease your goodness is representative of your authentic nature, and your conscious decision to be and give who YOU are to the world.

Your relationships become a platform for growth and joy when you apply a loving perspective to them.

5. Come from a loving intention for a deeper connection.

Love leaves nobody out. Not even you. Not even me. That’s just not what love does, and it’s just not what love is.

. . .

I’m curious:

Which of these thoughts did you need the most today?

Tell me in the comments. I read every single one, and I’d love to know!

With love,

Jen