People who build constructive relationships with their personal friends and family members gain important benefits.

• They are healthier

• They live longer

• They succeed in most of their activities

• Sociable people take better care of themselves. People who value their friendships with others are more likely to stop smoking, continue to take required medication, go to the doctor more often when they're ill. That's because even when they are tempted to let things slide, their friends get after them.

Social able people are physically healthier. Researchers have found that social ties have physiological effects that makes people healthier. Sociable people feel less depressed, notice fewer aches and pains, have lower levels of stress-related hormones, etc.

Obviously, its in every ones self-interest to build good relationships with others... and fortunately it's a skill that can be learned even if it doesn't come naturally. If you want to form more positive relationships but have always found it difficult because of your personality, your best strategy is to begin by changing your behavior, not your attitudes.

Strategies that can help you improve your relationships...

Practice listening. At least once a day, when someone is talking to you, force yourself to let that person finish what he/she is saying..Even if you find it hard to pay attention, don't interrupt or disconnect..at least look attentive.

It may be difficult at first, but gradually you will learn that other people may have something worthwhile to say, you can learn something from them...and when you show then that you recognize that, you'll get through to them better as well...

You will gradually come to appreciate where other people are coming from, become more tolerant and find relationships with others easier to make and more enjoyable.

Get a pet. If you're initially uncomfortable with people or live in socially isolated circumstances, positive relationships with animals can produce dramatic health benefits. A University of Maryland study of coronary patients showed that only 6% of pet owners died within a year..compared with 28% of those without pets.

Something to think about...