Connections, associations, affiliations all describe the same concept, the different ways we as people can relate to each other. And when we give these connections a little bit more gravity, when we place some sort of value on these relations, we often refer to them as relationships. Once we recognise or acknowledge a bond between us and another, a relationship is formed. And it is these relationships that are the fabric of humanity, the literal thread that pulls us together. Sure, they can come in numerous, varied, shapes and sizes; family relationships, romantic relationships, plutonic, long-distance, the list goes on. But regardless of the context, at the heart of all relationships lies… people.

Every individual, fortunately or unfortunately, comes as a package deal of their unique personality, emotions, needs and ambitions. Now, because like candy we all come in a variety of flavours, that means that there is always the possibility of flavours clashing or making an awesome new flavour-burst combo. Conversations around relationship building, compatibility and healthy versus toxic relationships then fall into play as we navigate how to best relate to people, or if we should even have a relationship with them to begin with.

Building and maintaining healthy and happy relationships requires work and effort from both parties, which is something that is not always easy to do. Like a new plant baby, relationships require you to nurture them for them to thrive. And we know in our increasingly fast-paced world, filled with the ever-shifting, everyday nuances of life, putting our relationships first or sometimes just keeping them alive can be harder than we might expect. If you feel the effort being put in to nurture a relationship is one-sided, that might be an indication that you need to make some big changes in the relationship, or simply let it go. Just as you and your needs and wants change as you grow, so can your relationships.

A third person who is a neutral party between the people in the relationship, so that they can objectively advise you on how to navigate your relationship troubles. With the various types of relationship dynamics that exist today, figuring out how to navigate and maintain them is harder than ever. Especially with social media and technology influencing how we connect, communicate and relate with one another, we are all to some degree in uncharted waters when trying to make and keep meaningful connections in this tech age. Fortunately for us and for the sake of our relationships, experts like Catriona Boffard exist to equip you with all you need to navigate relationships like a pro.