If you’re having a hard time getting along with someone you love, or if you’re having a hard time getting what you need from a relationship, positive reinforcement may work. Here’s how, and why:

  • If you compliment or acknowledge positive behavior, you’re essentially welcoming more of the same in a positive manner.
  • Instead of attacking or condemning someone for bad or rude behavior, you’re rewarding them for positive behavior.
  • Focus on getting what you want and need out of the relationship – if you like what you get, say so. If you don’t like what you get, still say what you do like while you are discussing what you don’t like.
  • Finally, stay dedicated to acknowledging the positive and building the relationship on that. However, if the negative consistently outweighs the positive, consider re-evaluating your relationship.

<Stephanie Mansour

Stephanie Mansour, CEO of Step It Up with Steph, is a Health & Fitness Expert and Body Image & Confidence Coach. As a certified personal trainer, yoga instructor, Pilates instructor, and life coach, Stephanie has been featured on CNN, AOL, and more for her realistic and holistic approach to health & fitness. She coaches women through her virtual 30 Day Jumpstart Program, and recently trained her client to lose 83 lbs in 12 weeks on NBC Chicago!