As we end the year, we may take a moment to reflect on the last 12 months and think about whether we’ve been the best human beings. Not only for ourselves, but for all our relationships as well. As in any relationship, there are certain attributes we consider healthy and unhealthy. Or in this case, naughty or nice! The differences between a healthy and unhealthy environment can be hard to pinpoint. Not everything is black and white, and it’s easy to let things slide when it involves the people we love the most. Here is a guideline.
The Naughty List
Behaviors like these will result in coal in your stockings! If you are experiencing any of these behaviors in your relationships, or you find yourself demonstrating these behaviors yourself, it’s time to take a step back and reevaluate. Here are a few naughty list behaviors to think about.
Being Judgemental
This is a tad tricky, because what’s the point in having a brain if we don’t use it to make judgments? However, that is not the sort we are talking about. If someone you love is constantly nit-picking at things you are doing, then they are not accepting who you truly are. You do not need to change, you are who you are! Everyone is different, and we as a society need to be a little more patient in accepting others.
Being Unwilling to Communicate
Communication is key for many reasons. Things can get messy and dysfunctional when we do not express how we feel healthily. In every kind of relationship, we must always communicate effectively. It’s literally one of the most important attributes of a strong relationship.
Lacking Empathy
This goes hand in hand with being judgmental. When empathy is lacking, people feel misunderstood or rejected. For a strong foundation in any relationship, people need to feel understood to be able to trust and communicate.
The Nice List
These behaviors will for sure keep you on Santa’s Nice list! If you are experiencing these behaviors or demonstrating them, then you have figured out the healthy way to maintain stable relationships. Keep it up!
Being Accepting to Everyone
As it is the opposite of being judgmental, being open and accepting is an excellent trait to have. We don’t have to love everything about someone, but we do need to accept them.
Always Communicating
If there is a problem in your relationship, whether that be with family, friends, or partners, you can have constructive conversations and resolve the issue. There is no fear of retaliation, and all parties are willing to have those tough conversations to move forward and grow.
Being Supportive
Perhaps the most underrated behavior on the nice list is being a supportive friend, family member, or partner. It is always a great feeling when you feel supported and backed by those you love. Support builds loyalty and trust, and there is no better person to be by your side through thick and thin than those you care about most.
Source: One Love (2021) Is Your Relationship Naughty or Nice