February is the second month in our calendar year. This month we celebrate and focus our attention on relationships and their purpose.

Relationships are a critical part of our lives and influence us in many ways. Positive relationships contribute to our sense of satisfaction, positive self regard, and balance. Within positive relationships, giving is a joy and receiving is a privilege.

Relationships show up in our lives when we need them to teach us a lesson about ourselves. This applies to relationships in the work place as well. For example, you may get a new boss who is consistently asking to stay longer and commit to new projects. Or, a good friend looking to seize her position as a partner in her law firm may come to you asking for a piece of business. Or, the boss who is verbally demeaning toward his secretary. In each case, you are confronted with making choices and learning from them. Will you decide to tell your boss that your plate is already full? Will you whole heartedly pass business along to your friend? Will you stand along side and support the secretary? Each choice yields a consequence which in turn leads to growth and learning.

Many times, the message embeded within a relationship is: set boundaries, choose you, adhere to your values, or set higher standards. We need to be aware that some relationships come into our lives in order to test our commitment to ourselves, values and standards. These relationships can be draining and difficult. However, if we recognize this fact and sit in our integrity when the time comes, we will endure with certainty and confidence.

Although work environments and the relationships within them can be competitive, it is important that we focus on the relationships that do work. When relationships are based on mutual respect and good intentions, a balance between give and take manifests. As a result, we feel fulfilled, accepted, supported, and loved. Positive and authentic relationships are a gift. They allow us to wholeheartedly share our wins and our losses. They nurture and inspire us.