Being in a long term relationship takes work and having children means even more people are added to that mix.  All too often people feel alone or unloved when in truth they may be surrounded by people who love them very much.  It all comes down to communication.  You may know how you feel about your spouse and children, but do they know?

These five simple steps will make your family life healthier, happier and more fulfilling.

1)  SHARE YOURE FEELINGS

Everyone likes to be reminded of how important they are, so be sure to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.  You don’t have to do this everyday, but at least once a week will make sure that those you love, realize that they are an important part of your life.

LOVE.  When you love someone it shouldn’t be hard to say loving words to them on a daily basis, but never go more than a week.  Assuming others know how you feel can be a big mistake.

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Please note, you have to love yourself before you can love others.  If you do not accept yourself for who you are, odds are you will not be able to show love to others or truly feel the love others have for you.

How to love yourself unconditionally

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2) LISTEN

Make time to hear what your loves ones have to say to you.  Life can be busy, but your job is supposed to be a means to an end, not something that crowds out your loved ones.  If you don’t make time to listen to your loved ones then you are not being a part of their lives.  Listen to them and hear what they are going through.

This is particularly important with children.  Asking them about their  day and and listening to their stories will make them feel important to you.

It can be hard for us guys, but often people want someone to listen more than they want someone to solve their problems.

3) ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS

It is easy to say “I love you” for most well adjusted people, but showing your love means much more.  You can end every conversation with “I love you”, but if you are not going to show it the words will soon lose their meaning.

4) TEAM

You and your loved ones are on the same team.  That is what family should be.  Thinking of your spouse as an opponent or competitor is a sure path to destruction of the family.  You should know that your loved ones have your best interests at heart and they should know that you are there for them as well.  The only way this can happen is if you let them know this.

5) TOUCH

Reaching out and taking someones hand creates the feeling of love, protection and intimacy.  Touch is important.  When you see young lovers there are always touching each other, holding hands or kissing.  Just because you have been married for a decade or more doesn’t mean that touch shouldn’t be part of your relationship.

Holding your child’s hand, or patting them on the back when they do a good job can mean the world to them.  Sometimes a heart felt hug can mean more than any words.

Keep in mind that some of us require more touch than others, but some form of physical interaction is important.