Making deposits into relationships
How full is your account?
I have been enjoying spending time with my daughter these past two weeks during her school break. Yesterday we were at the art museum when I felt her soft little hand in mine. There were lots of hugs too. Ahh, such a gift!
Of course, after a while she got bored and the whining began. But it made me realize how important it is for our relationship to spend quality time together. Whether it is playing Hangman in the living room or doing outings like yesterday, giving our children attention is priceless.
I’ve been reading one of Joel Osteen’s books in which he talks about relationships and how they are like ATM machines. You need to have more deposits than withdrawals or problems ensue. Saying “I love you” or giving them your undivided attention is a deposit. Yelling at them to do their chores is a withdrawal.
I’ve noticed that if I make a lot of deposits like yesterday, I can get away with losing my temper over her dripping her popsicle on the couch. But if I’m stressed and all I’m doing is making demands of her, I get temper tantrums in return.
I think it’s like that with everyone, except it seems more noticeable with kids. My husband has read this too and he’ll remind me to make some deposits when I’m being cranky with him!
Speaking of which, I need to go and make some deposits with my daughter. Have a great day!
Angela says:
Tami–
Love this simile. And it is too true! My daughter is learning this in kindergarten. They call it “filling someone’s bucket” and she often reminds me not to be a bucket dipper!
What is the name of the book you are reading?
sam elliston says:
wonderful – and the prosperity that we think about for our banks of money is possible with our deposits of relationship builders, too – and maybe we tithe when we give our quality time and attention first, before taking time for ourselves?
Hmm- interesting analogue
tamilb says:
Thanks Angela and Sam. The name of the book is “Becoming a Better You” by Joel Osteen. And yes, I agree that we need to make a deposit or “fill our own buckets” to make sure we have enough to give to others!
forex robot says:
What a great resource!