You may not always feel like you’re fully able to help those you love the most, and that can happen at any stage of life for a variety of reasons. Who do you want to show up more for? It could be your grandparents, kids, spouse, or another relative. Do you want to feel disconnected or like you’re living in the past? By making changes as needed, such as improving how you communicate and improving aspects of yourself, you can create more connections with family.
Put Away Distractions
A new habit to start is to turn off your phone or put it on silent mode when it’s mealtime together. Or during other times with family. This simple and easy trick helps keep you from being interrupted and makes you more emotionally available to those important to you. These device-free moments are ones where the family feels seen, valued, and loved by you.
They’ll have your complete focus, without your mind being on anything else. Putting away the phone also improves your mental health by reducing stress. You won’t feel like you’re being pulled in different directions at once.
Actively Listen
When someone you care about talks to you, do you listen? Like, fully listen? Or do you already have in mind what you’ll say before they’ve even stopped talking? Looking at the conversations you’ve had, be honest with yourself as to whether you’re actively listening or not.
If you’re not already actively listening, here are some tips to help. Try to truly listen to their words the next time you spend time together, focusing on what they’re saying and their tone of voice. Avoid judging them or assuming you already know what they’re going to say or do. To show your interest, ask them questions about what they’re talking about.
Do Activities Together
Make the effort to plan things to do together. That could be a walk on a trail, cooking, and doing puzzles. Maybe you have a favorite hobby to share with family as a way to become closer and show them more sides of yourself.
Now is the perfect time to start doing it with them. You may find yourselves laughing and smiling while enjoying one another’s company. Smiling can boost your mood naturally by releasing endorphins.
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/love-you-self-text-5662853/
Work on Bettering Yourself
To be fully present for others, you have to care for your own mind and body. That’s not a one-time thing but something you continue to do to be at your best. Becoming better in stressful situations and assessing how you’ve grown over time can improve your mental health and help you be stronger and a more positive influence on your family.
Part of self-betterment can include addressing challenges such as drug and alcohol use, which can affect emotional availability, relationships, and more. Getting the right support could be the best next step. For example, rehab Massachusetts residents can choose from specialized types of substance detox, residential treatment, and therapy. When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to be fully present with your family.
Make an Effort to Be Grateful
When you stop to think about it, there’s a lot to be thankful for. It could be a laugh with your children, or a shared meal with your older aunt. The point here is to make the most of the present moment. It is those minutes together that you have to be thankful for, as some people are lonely and do not have anyone to turn to or spend time with.
As you begin to feel more grateful, express appreciation for your family regularly. For example, when you notice that someone did something nice for you, point it out. Say thank you. It could be as simple as saying, “I really appreciate that you made dinner tonight.” That makes them feel you value them. Over time, it can create a more positive connection. You may find family opening up to you more, too, and that you do the same.
Conclusion
Being present for your family is a process. It requires ongoing effort. But it is so worth it for the love and care you receive and feel! When you’re not sure how to be more present, the tips above can help. That means putting your phone on silent mode, actively listening, and doing activities together, making time for self-growth, and telling family you’re grateful for them.
Being present is about being fully there for your loved ones. You don’t have to be perfect every time. The main thing is you have the right intention and are kind and respectful in your interactions.
Featured image: Photo by RDNE Stock project: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-family-spending-time-together-7982837/
