How To Build A Foundation For Healthy Relationships While You Are Single

Are you single and looking to build a strong foundation for future relationships? 

Being intentional about this process can lead to fulfilling connections down the road. While it's natural to desire companionship, taking the time to focus on yourself and your future can set the stage for healthier relationships. Let's explore some practical steps you can take to build a solid foundation for healthy relationships while you're single.

Step #1: Self-Understanding and Self-Love

Before diving into a relationship, it's essential to understand yourself better. This can sometimes be talked about too much and get annoying to hear. Keep in mind that if you are already doing this, great! But from now on, bring more intentionality to it. Also, consider going just 1% further with the things you are already doing to make them stronger and more effective. 

Take time to explore your interests, values, and goals. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it's pursuing a hobby, practicing self-care routines, or simply spending time alone, prioritize your well-being. 

Remember, a healthy relationship starts with a strong sense of self.

Step #2: Understanding Healthy Relationships

What does a healthy relationship look like? 

It's built on mutual respect, trust, and effective communication. Healthy partners support each other's growth and celebrate successes together. 

Too often, we use old stories and relationship models that surrounded us in the past. However, these are not always the healthiest examples to follow. Consider having relationship role models or creating new definitions of what a healthy relationship will look like to you. 

Take the time to learn about healthy relationship dynamics and recognize red flags. Understanding these principles will guide you in forming meaningful connections in the future.

Step #3: Communication Skills

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship. 

Practice expressing your thoughts and feelings openly and honestly. Learn to listen actively and empathetically to your partner. Communication allows you to resolve conflicts, strengthen bonds, and deepen intimacy. 

Try out your new skills on the people in your life already. Go outside your comfort zone and if boldness is new to you, try it. If you’re already bold, consider bringing a softer side to your connections with people. By honing your communication skills now, you'll be better equipped to navigate relationships in the future.

Step #4: Taking Time and Being Selective

While it can be tempting to rush into a relationship, taking your time is important to creating a healthy relationship. 

Don't settle for just anyone out of fear of being alone. Be selective and prioritize quality over quantity. Make lists of what’s important to you, and why. Think about what that person who has all the characteristics you want will look like and be like. Imagine and dream it. 

In coaching, there are \exercises that Coach Varsha uses to address this further and make it more intentional. Trust that the right person will come along when you know what to look for and believe it is possible to find them. Use this period of singleness to focus on fortifying your belief that the right person for you exists.

Step #5: Building Strong Friendships

Friendships are an essential part of our support system. Surround yourself with influences who uplift and inspire you. Cultivate meaningful friendships based on mutual respect and shared interests. Furthermore, tell these friends how they can specifically support you and be there for you in ways that actually work. If you want feedback, ask for it. If you don’t, be strong enough to tell them that too. 

Often, friends want to be there for you but don’t know how or will assume things out of a desire to be helpful. However,the more you help them, help you, the more you can benefit from the relationship. These relationships can provide invaluable support and companionship, even when you're single. Invest time and energy into nurturing these connections.

Building a foundation for healthy relationships while you're single is an empowering journey of self-discovery and growth. By prioritizing self-exploration, understanding healthy relationship dynamics, honing communication skills, and being selective with your choices, you set yourself up for success in future relationships. 

Remember to cherish your friendships and enjoy the journey of self-improvement. With patience and intentionality, you'll pave the way for fulfilling and meaningful connections in the future.