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| Image: utoronto.ca |
The World Health Organization defines quality of life as "individuals' perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and in relation to their goals, expectations, standards and concerns." I suggest that you regularly examine the life quality of your relationship. Answer these questions separately, and then come together with your partner to discuss your answers.
Are you content with the quality of your life with your partner? Do you feel safe, loved, appreciated, and respected 99% of the time? Are you both "on the same page" as far as where your relationship is going? Do you have more good days than bad? Are you satisfied with the amount of love and support you receive from your partner, and do you reciprocate in kind? Are you individually and collectively working on clear-cut goals? If you are a student, are you taking full advantage of the opportunity that's been given to you...going to class, doing your work on time, studying, performing well on exams? Are you gainfully employed? If so, are you content with what you do? If not, are you taking specific steps to find another job that's more fulfilling? Do you make time to have fun?
Are you content with the quality of your life with your partner? Do you feel safe, loved, appreciated, and respected 99% of the time? Are you both "on the same page" as far as where your relationship is going? Do you have more good days than bad? Are you satisfied with the amount of love and support you receive from your partner, and do you reciprocate in kind? Are you individually and collectively working on clear-cut goals? If you are a student, are you taking full advantage of the opportunity that's been given to you...going to class, doing your work on time, studying, performing well on exams? Are you gainfully employed? If so, are you content with what you do? If not, are you taking specific steps to find another job that's more fulfilling? Do you make time to have fun?
Relationships take work. They need regular maintenance (and repairs when necessary) to keep them in good working order. So it's important to have regular check-ins with your partner to determine your life quality; the exercise above can get the conversation started.
Quietude
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| Image: tweakfit.com |
Defined as "the state of being quiet; tranquillity; calmness; stillness," quietude is yet another element to defining one's quality of life (see above). It is essential not only to your personal health, but to the health of your partnership. It is an excellent stress reliever, and helps dealing with the world a little easier. Some people find it by sitting quietly for a minute, and just paying attention to their breath. Others take yoga classes. Meditate. Go for a hike in the woods, or a walk around the neighborhood. Listen to soothing music. Read for pleasure. Linger in a hot bath. Stretch out on a lawn chair or hammock. You can create quietude with any activity (or inactivity) that is uninterrupted and makes you feel calm and peaceful.
Make creating quietude a regular part of your routine. You say you don't have the time? Make the time. Your health (and that of your partnership) depends on it.
(c) 2012 Robyn M. Posson
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