With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, people often begin thinking during January as to what gifts or creative gestures they can come up with for that special “sweetheart.” Creating a personal and intimate bond with another generally begins with finding a blissful moment, mutual gazing, and learning how to maintain passion over a length of time. Working together entails commitment, effective communication, making accommodations, and being vulnerable to each others’ happiness. Building successful relationships isn’t always easy, but can be done.

When meeting someone for the first time, it is hard not to form judgments. We immediately and unconsciously assess that person. However, we later discover that split-second judgments can often be incorrect. Forming mental shortcuts and stereotypes can sometimes keep us from learning valuable information about a person. One of the greatest treasures in life is forming a genuine bond with another person; whether as a friend or a mate.

Research indicates that many women seek men who are funny; who make them laugh. People in general seem to look for new experiences, new projects, and fun things to do with those whom they choose to grow closer to. Having similar interests is paramount to planning fun events. The key to any relation is simply finding ways to promote the positive. One must understand how to cultivate passion, share in devotion, and contribute support and enthusiasm for each others’ dreams and accomplishments. Acts of jealousy, anger, and arguing only create negative tension that can destroy the good in any relationship.

Developing an upbeat outlook, creating strong emotional attachments, and avoiding the stress of lingering over small annoyances can help to create a better connection with others. It seems quite obvious that positivity broadens your mind and as a result lures people closer to your heart. Several examples of positive emotions that you might strive to portray are: joy; interest; awe; inspiration; amusement; gratitude; hope; pride; serenity; and love. Practicing these types of emotions can also brighten the day of coworkers, friends and family members.

Fulfilling daily duties while trying to conquer one’s dreams can be exasperating. An overload of responsibility can leave a person feeling as if they are “spinning out of control.”

Yet, in light of life’s battles and tedious demands, try to remember: no matter what obstacles you are facing it is always important to generate a positive attitude and actions toward others.

Showing how much you care for the people who surround you is a great way to reap positive returns.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne. 

Her column regularly appears in the Daphne Bulletin and Spanish Fort Sun.