Having Strong Relationships in 2026 Looks Like This:
The beginning of a new year is a great time to assess one of our most valuable assets: our relationships with the people we care about most.
Cracks in connection often form gradually, when small things accumulate over time. Unspoken expectations, unresolved hurt, and silent assumptions can slowly erode trust. The result is that insecurity grows, walls go up, and relationships start to feel distant.
The good news is that strong relationships can be repaired and even strengthened. It takes intentionality, consistency, and a willingness to do the hard work of connection.
Try practicing these simple but powerful ways to approach the important relationships in your life:
Instead of assuming, create clarity around expectations. This means naming your needs instead of expecting others to guess them.
Instead of accusing, ask good questions. This means offering grace and seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions.
Instead of pulling away, lean into uncomfortable conversations. This means choosing to believe the best until proven otherwise—and staying engaged even when it’s hard.
When we choose to shift from insecurity and wall-building to intentional trust-building, we will make a difference.
Larry
Check out our latest episode of the RelationShifts Podcast:
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