Stephen Covey, author of “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, talks about the fact that relationships have “Emotional Bank Accounts.” We make deposits, and we make withdrawals. When an emotional bank account goes into overdraft, the relationship is in trouble.

 

It’s a great concept. Most of us know how it feels when a relationship is “in the red.” We feel resentful because the other party always seems to be taking, never giving. It’s the prime reason for ending a friendship or a romantic partnership. We do the math and come to the conclusion that we are getting a raw deal.

 

Deposits into an emotional bank account are always positive. They include paying compliments, saying thank you, making small gestures of help and support, and gift giving. A hug, a touch, a smile can all add to the bank balance. As long as we have built up some “credit” there is no problem with making withdrawals.

 

A relationship can have a credit crisis too. An emergency “rescue package” sometimes works, but it’s not the best solution long term. A healthy relationship has lots of deposits, and withdrawals don’t exceed the balance that has accumulated. What’s YOUR credit like?