Having solid, supportive relationships is a key foundation for good emotional health. It’s worth your time and effort to prioritize them, especially as you get older. You might be a social butterfly, extremely introverted, or somewhere in between. Wherever you fall on that continuum, developing and maintaining strong relationship skills is important. Here are a few tips to help you.

1. Boost Your Self-Awareness

The more you’re aware of your values, preferences, and identity, the more you’ll be able to bond authentically with others. It’s also important to be aware of your blind spots and limitations. Starting a journaling practice can be a helpful means toward that end. So is counseling with a supportive professional. Not sure where to look? Do a search using terms such as counseling session Somerville NJ to find a clinician who’s right for you.

2. Tend To Others

Find a way to reach out beyond yourself and serve others. This can be as simple as sharing a smile with the cashier in a coffee shop or as involved as volunteering for a nonprofit. Do what works for you. Helping others is a powerful way to lift your mood and feel more connected to your community.

3. Advocate for Yourself

Be sure to establish and maintain healthy personal boundaries. Doing so will increase the integrity and satisfaction of your relationships. You’ll feel more in control of your destiny and your happiness. There are many online resources to help you with boundary setting; find ones that resonate with your way of looking at the world.

4. Expand Your Circle

Take care of your current relationships. At the same time, be open to life-affirming new relationships. Often, you’ll meet great people through your current social circle.

Improving your relationships requires both inward and outward focus. Keep these suggestions in mind to strengthen your bonds with others.