Personal Reflection Exercises... Communication of my feelings is important.
Communication of my feelings is important. Because I know that relationships cannot grow without understanding, I share my honest feelings with the special people in my life. I know I run the risk that the other person may misunderstand or perhaps even get angry, but I am confident that we can work through these hitches and use them to develop deeper relationships.
I realize that some people in life are merely being polite when they ask how I'm doing. I am careful with my heart and don't expose my inner self to people unless I know that they genuinely care about me. Once I am comfortable with others, I am willing to take a risk in sharing my feelings because I know that it is the only way to develop authentic, supportive relationships. Self-Reflection Questions:
I have let go of the tendency to only admit to those feelings that could be classified as nice. It's a wonderful thing to be happy, content and peaceful. When I do feel that way, I am more than pleased to share the good feelings all around. I also recognize that life is often far too challenging to be in a perpetual happy state and I am unwilling to pretend for the sake of keeping the waters calm. I strive for authenticity in my relationships. I want those I love to feel like they can come to me when they are hurt or upset. I set a precedent by being open with them and by sharing my fears, worries, and struggles along the way.
1. Do I dare to be honest within the relationships that truly matter to me? 2. Do I set a precedent for honesty by my words and actions? 3. Am I trustworthy when others confide in me?