Since we’ve been looking at ‘Wow as a Case Study’ series for the past few weeks, you will agree with me that, the knowledge we have gained so far is worth it.
Today, we will be studying together how we can build a good relationship with other WOW members. We all know that to build a house, it consists of different materials and so that means we all need one another to build WOW as an edifice worth inhabiting. Also, we understand that a relationship involves two or more people. One cannot be in a relationship with oneself alone. No one is an island.
To build a house we need materials like sand, granite, cement, water etc. to make the house beautiful to behold. So, to build a good relationship in WOW, there are some vital things we need and they include:
- Accepting One Another’s Opinion: Just as we all are different in faces and statures, so are our opinions and beliefs. For the fact that I don’t agree with Kemi Daramola’s opinion doesn’t mean she is wrong. We must learn to accommodate one another. Through simply talking and realizing that the opinions of others may vary from one’s own, people can become more knowledgeable. When we refuse to accept one another’s opinions or beliefs, it’s easy for hatred and hostility to grow in. Accepting one another’s opinions and beliefs are keys to spreading more peace in WOW as difficult as it may be.
- Respecting One Another: Respect is reciprocal. You can’t respect people without accepting their opinions and beliefs. Let’s not talk to one another in a condescending manner. We are Women of Worth. Everyone has a worth, no one is worthless. When chatting, let’s choose our words wisely, this is not to say we will now be walking on egg shells. Make allowance for others. When you send a chat or question, once you get one or two responses, move on. And if the responses you get are not satisfactory, then you can post it again. There are times mood swing will set in, there are times we don’t feel like chatting or we are busy with some things. Learn to accept the situation and move on.
- Love and Mutual Respect: We have to understand that, no one is perfect. We all have issues we are dealing with. Give and it shall be given, not in terms of money but I am coming from the angle of ‘nobody asked after me’. How many people have you checked on? How many people have you celebrated? How often do we see your chat in the group? WOW want to see your chat often not when you are in need or being celebrated.
- Obey Rules: Rules are made to set boundaries. And we can’t have a healthy relationship when you are consistently flaunting the rules. Also, Let’s communicate openly and honestly. No gossip! if I offend you, tell it to my face not behind me. I may not even know I’ve offended you.
Good communication is a fundamental part of a healthy relationship. When you experience a positive emotional connection with one another, you feel safe and happy. When people stop communicating or relating well, it can bring about disconnect. It may sound simplistic but as long as you are communicating, you can always work through whatever problems you’re facing.
Learn how to respectfully resolve conflicts because it is inevitable in any relationship. To keep a relationship strong, we need to feel we’re heard and loved by others. The goal is not to win but to maintain and strengthen the relationship. If tempers flare, take a break. Take a few minutes to relieve stress and calm down before you say or do something you will regret. Always remember that you are arguing with the person you love.
Don’t take out your problems on one another. Life’s stress can make us short tempered. If you are coping with a lot of stress, it might seem easier to vent with one another and even feel safer to snap at them. Fighting like this might initially feel like a release but it slowly poisons our relationship. Let’s find other healthier ways to manage our stress, anger, and frustration.
In conclusion, let’s genuinely listen. Do not interrupt or plan what you’re going to say next. Try to fully understand others’ perspective.
Questions and Answers
Question 1: What do I do in a situation whereby I’m trying to create a good relationship with another WOW but she on the other hand is not willing to reciprocate? Should I accept the situation and move on or I should continue to press in the place of prayer, or I should inform the Admin?
Answer
Well, I believe relationship should not be forced. It’s dependent on the frequency or energy the other person brings.
Just be you and be kind, you will attract the right people. Not like you now have something against the person or you’re now quietly hating on the person. It’s simply understanding that everyone cannot accept your friendship and it’s perfectly fine.
Question 2: What if someone is persistently and consistently rude to members, what can we do? Should we ignore, play the big person or give the person back once the cup is full?
Answer
Correct the person in love, not in a condescending manner. If it is consistent like you said, Admin will notice it and sincerely we don’t mind removing people like that. Especially if the person’s presence starts to threaten other members. If it’s huge to you, we’ll take action. We might ask the person to apologize but we won’t invalidate your feelings just because we can’t reason with you.
Opinion 1
Honestly, we should treat others how we would love to be treated. Nobody likes it when people treat them with disdain. Civility is key when relating with people. I absolutely agree, our words can make or mar the other person. We should pick our words carefully so we don’t hurt others emotionally or psychologically. Listen to respond objectively not listening to react!
Topic: Building A Good Relationship with Other WOW Members.
Lecturer’s Name: Tomilola Ogunbona
Date Delivered: 23rd February, 2022.