by Dr. Michael Mongno

We all want to experience more love and happiness, yet sometimes we fail to connect the role we ourselves play in its creation and maintenance. We know it’s best to engage with love in our hearts, but often that’s easy to forget when we’re caught in emotionally challenging situations. Yet at any moment, we can choose once again to love. Begin by first forgiving yourself (for forgetting), then forgiving your partner (for everything) and then start to practice loving actions even in the midst of the tension filled drama.

When we try our best to be considerate of others’ feelings and can extend the benefit of the doubt, we prioritize people differently with our thoughts and actions. By leading with unconditional positive regard it’s natural to follow through with loving actions of kindness. These actions can include showing physical and emotional affection as well as demonstrating engaged presence. This means truly being present in your listening to another as well as consistently responding with empathy and compassion, thus building greater trust. Try being the partner you’d like to meet in the world and watch miracles happen in all of your relationships.

Dr. Michael Mongno is the founder of PresentCenteredTherapies.com. Reach him at 212-799-0001 or [email protected].

"Awarded 2015 Best Business of NY for Counseling & Mental Health."