It Starts With You

Rather than focusing on how to change our relationships, we need to start with ourselves. We need to start by taking a look at how we are showing up in our relationships. Are we listening to those around us? How are we shaping the culture of our relationships? We have found that when we learn and practice four basic relational skills, how we show up in our relationships can change quite dramatically.

Change Happens Through Listening

Gary Sweeten has developed four simple relational skills that lead to a profound change in our lives and relationships. It may come as a surprise, but these skills center around listening instead of speaking. Research consistently shows how the most important factor in life change and growth is the quality and connection of our relationships. Using concepts and skills taught to counselors and therapists, this course teaches how to listen well to create the kind of relationships in which people feel safe, connected, and thrive.

Four Main Skills

Just like us, we imagine you would like these skills in your relationships with a partner, children, parents, friends, and co-workers.

  • Genuineness

    The ability to be real and not fake.

  • Warmth

    A set of skills where we practice being fully present and tuned into another person.

  • Empathy

    The skill of seeking to understand what another person is thinking and feeling.

  • Respect

    The practice of interacting with a foundation of inherent and God-given worth and value.