Getting the Most from People Interactions 
1.  Listen to all sides of the story.
2.  Find out what is important to the other person.
3.  Try to look at the situation from the other person's point of view.
4.  Repeat back what you heard being said.
5.  Ask yourself what is good about a situation.
6.  Remember that praise goes further than criticism.
7.  Turn off the television.
8.  Play together.
9.  Make eye contact when talking.
10.  Say "please," "thank you," and "I'm sorry."
11.  Do something nice for someone on his or her birthday.
12.  Don't go to bed angry.
13.  Listen more than you talk.
14.  Think more about giving then receiving.
15.  Do something nice for someone in secret.
16.  Play relaxing music.
17.  Add a nice aroma to the room.
18.  Take a walk to talk.
19.  Talk to children at their level.
20.  Spend time together.
21.  Share funny stories.
22.  Watch a sunset together.
23.  Enjoy a meal together.
24.  Invite company for dinner.
25.  Pray for each other.
26.  Think of the positive attributes of the other person.
27.  Write a letter to express your thoughts.
28.  Treat others as you would like to be treated.
29.  Respect others.


Copyright © 1999 Michigan State University Extension.  For information about Hunger Resources and Programming, contact <wrublec@msue.msu.edu>. 

Michigan State University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution. Michigan State University Extension educational programs and materials are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. 3/99