The 5 C's of Happy Relationships

A relationship with someone, whether it be your spouse or partner, your family member, a friend, or even a complete stranger, can benefit from these five words that all start with the letter C.

Communication - Many people already know the importance of good communication, but they aren't always aware of how to apply it. Communication is not just about talking about your day or your feelings, but also talking to someone in a way they will understand you. Listening is equally important to successful communication. One person should never do all the talking. Communication is also not just limited to words; your body language can also communicate just as much as the words coming out of your mouth.

Caring - Caring is more than just feeling love towards someone. Caring requires sympathy, understanding, and compassion. You need to make the other person aware that you care. Showing that you care can be as simple as giving the person a hug or a pat on the back. It can be a word of encouragement or a prayer.

Consideration - Consideration is the ability to think about the other person's needs ahead of your own. It means holding a door for them, or offering to help them with something. Consideration means sharing the last cookie with another person instead of eating the whole thing yourself. It means bringing them a cup of coffee or telling them about a traffic jam before they go out. By thinking less of your own needs you will be able to see the many ways you can show consideration to someone else.

Courage - Courage is the ability to persevere through troubled times and face fears. It is the ability to be honest even if the truth may be painful. Courage can be implemented in many situations: crisises, financial difficulties, disagreements, and decisions. Being brave enough to work through problems instead of running away can bring lasting relationships. Practicing courage can be difficult, but it is a necessary trait to have to have a successful relationship.

Creativity - Creativity is the trait to find solutions to problems, and to laugh at situations that may not really seem funny. By being creative, you can find ways to keep your relationship dynamic and interesting. Creativity can help you wade through issues that affect your relationship with happy results. Creativity will also help you deal with changes and circumstances you cannot control.

These five C's are the foundation for happy and lasting relationships. Through practice and by sharing these qualities with others, you can experience success with your partner, your family, your friends, and the new people you meet.