9 Ways to Co-Create Harmony in Relationships

We affect many lives beyond our own. A single act of kindness is remembered forever. Conversely, actions of others, a momentary lapse of judgment, an unexpected curve, construction, detours or even weather can dramatically change our course.

harmony-in-relationshipsAs living beings on this earth, we share a common spirit and a common source of power. Allowing ourselves to accentuate our differences – gender, age, culture or values, separates us. Looking for what we have in common creates harmony and strengthens us all.

Motorcycles are non-judgmental, accepting and open to new experiences. Following their example can teach us much about relationships.

9 ways to co-create harmony in relationships

 

  1. Accept people the way they are. Bikes don’t judge, discriminate or ask you to change. Likewise, each person has distinct attributes and qualities and is equipped for a specific purpose. It may not fit with your interests, but that doesn’t make their role any less significant than yours. Respect who they are, even if you don’t like them. It will encourage them to do the same.

 

  1. Give everyone a fair chance. A motorcycle will go with anyone. If it’s not a fit for the rider, that’s another issue but the bike is willing to give it a go. Obvious safety issues aside, it’s an important lesson in learning not to make assumptions. Read: The Four Agreements, by Don Miguel Ruiz

 

  1. Ride your own ride. Trying to make a big touring bike work through off-road trails creates risk, stress and discord. Do what you are meant to do. Operating from a place of fulfillment makes all your relationships that much more harmonious.

 

  1. Minimize; simplify. The less a bike has to carry, the less you alter it and accessorize, the less the chance of something going wrong. While regular maintenance is a must, minimizing the time necessary for upkeep opens up more time for enjoying the ride – and the experiences it brings.

 

  1. Try new experiences. Motorcycles don’t balk if their rider wants to take them off the beaten path. This is where the best experiences are; where you meet new people, discover new possibilities. One chance meeting can set off a whole chain of positive events.

 

  1. Accept where you are. Bikes stay where they’re put until it’s time to move on. You are right where you are meant to be in this moment. Open your eyes to the people who are around you and the situation you’re in. Guaranteed there are gifts and opportunities waiting for you.

 

  1. Be who you are. A bike doesn’t change who it is because of the rider. Sure, the rider can customize and make alterations, but the starting point, and the attraction to the rider, is the basic bike. In life, you attract people with similar interests and perspectives. If you’ve put up defenses or false fronts, how are they supposed to see who you are? You’ll only attract those who fit the faux you.

 

  1. Don’t take things personally. A bike isn’t offended if you don’t like its color, style or brand. It’s not meant to appeal to everyone and there will be someone it attracts. It’s not personal. If it’s not a fit, it’s not a fit. Move on. You won’t like everyone and everyone won’t like you.

 

  1. Love yourself first. If you don’t love who you are, why should anyone else love or respect you? If a motorcycle breaks down, it also lets down its rider. Taking care of who are, is the first essential step of being of service to others.

 

Wisdom learned from the road increases with each mile, whether it’s done on a motorcycle or your life’s path. Unlocking the door to who you are is the key to co-creating harmonious relationships, with yourself, life partners, coworkers and your community.
photo credit: Duncan Rawlinson via photopin cc

About

Author, writer, and student Liz Jansen combines her artistic mediums to create stories that inspire readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery.