Seek to hear their real inner feelings without
ridiculing them
Freely express your own inner feelings &
thoughts. Watch your tone of voice
Know clearly their ideas and plans for the future
Plan your schedule to include time with them
“Light up” when they return from a trip
Say “I love you” regularly & without conditions.
Avoid using negative nicknames
Share your personal problems & victories
Act cheerful & encouraging. Smile toward them
and laugh with (not at) them regularly
Actively attend or support their hobbies.
Seek & value their opinions
Pray with and for them regularly. Attend church
together when possible
Build their trust by being consistently honest with
them. Keep their secrets. Keep your promises
Actively listen to them by putting down the paper or
turning down the television
Allow them to borrow your things
Seek their forgiveness immediately when you’ve
offended them
Show an honest interest in their friends
Make a genuine effort to be on time
Do your fair share of shared responsibilities
Respect their property
*Adapted
from the Smally-Trent Distance-Closeness Survey
