This post is the eighth post in a series entitled Keys To Unlocking Great Relationships. Read the previous entries in this series here….

Today, I want to write a quick post about the importance of embracing the past and dreaming about the future. I think occasionally taking time to do both of these things in your relationships will enhance them greatly. For those of us who are Christians, we can look to the Bible as a model of this practice. God is constantly reminding His people of how far He has brought them, and encouraging them to remain focused on the hope that is to come.

First, in your relationships, do you take time to remember and celebrate how far you have come? This is one of my favorite things about my relationship with my dad, we love to celebrate together. Although things were not always as ideal as we would have hoped in our relationship, we both put in the hard work, and are now able to look back and have joy at how far we have come.

Especially when things get tough, it is vital to remember that you have weathered similar storms before, and that your perseverance will be rewarded. Even if there are things in the past of your relationships that you aren’t proud of, working to embrace them will free you. Running from you past only allows it to continue to haunt you. Give yourself grace, make amends if needed, and learn to forgive yourself. It is the only way to live fully now.

On the other hand, do you take time in your relationships to discuss the future. Do you dream together? Do you know the other person’s longings, hopes, desires, and aspirations? Do you even allow yourself to dream, to hope? Have you thought about how you would like to grow? If you can see your mate/friend/roommate/parent as a person who has hopes and longings, just like you do, it will add depth and richness to your relationship.