By Nuria Chinchilla

In a world that is increasingly connected, but paradoxically more distant, relational intelligence is presented as a key tool to strengthen our relationships and meet the challenges of engagement. This capacity not only improves personal dynamics, but also enriches our professional and community life, generating deeper and more meaningful connections.

Last December 11, we had the opportunity to count on Marta Gamiz and Mª Eugenia Pons de Gironella, who proposed us, for the last session of this 2024 of our I WiL Networking Lunch, to delve into the keys of relational intelligence, essential to develop healthy and lasting relationships. I present here a brief summary, and at the end, the link to the complete session.

What is relational intelligence?

Relational intelligence begins with small gestures, such as eye contact, which becomes an essential starting point for building trust and empathy. It is based on meeting basic social needs, such as care, trust and reciprocity, which are the foundation of any lasting relationship. It also requires overcoming certain myths, such as the idea that relationships are inherently difficult, to make way for mutual growth within couples and groups.

The power of communication in relationships

Effective communication is essential to strengthening relationships. This includes:

• Use empathy in conversations.
• Avoid absolute statements that may generate conflict.
• Encourage daily gratitude, a simple but powerful practice that helps to appreciate and nurture relationships.

Trust also plays a central role. It is built by accepting the imperfections of others and demonstrating reliability in our actions. Mutual respect and physical connection are other fundamental pillars for maintaining solid and satisfying relationships.

Marriage: more than a contract

Marriage is one of the contexts where relational intelligence is most relevant. Although legally a contract, marriage transcends the transactional by becoming a life partnership and mutual commitment. However, many people face this step without adequate preparation, which underscores the importance of relational education. Understanding the complexities of marriage not only helps build stronger bonds, but also prepares us to overcome the challenges that will inevitably arise.

In the canonical realm, marriage has spiritual dimensions that go beyond the legal framework. Recognizing its character as a natural and sacramental institution reminds us that it is not only a juridical union, but a profound commitment before God and the community. For example, lack of proper consent at the time of marriage is cause for nullity, because a genuine bond is not formed.

Overcoming marital crises

Marriage crises are inevitable, but facing them with relational intelligence can make all the difference. Finding truth in difficult times, forgiving oneself and one’s partner, and seeking mutual growth are essential steps to healing and peace. As wise counsel says, “It is better to be wrong in hope than right in tragedy.” This approach invites us to prioritize building relationships based on patience, perseverance and steady progress.

Keys:

Understanding relational intelligence fosters deeper connections and greater engagement in relationships.

Basic social needs such as care, trust and reciprocity form the basis of lasting relationships.

Effective communication, through empathy, avoiding absolutes and expressing gratitude, improves relational dynamics.

Cultivating daily gratitude strengthens relationships by fostering appreciation.

Building trust involves accepting imperfections and demonstrating reliability.

Relational education is crucial, as many people lack adequate preparation for the complexities of marriage.

Forgiveness and mutual growth are essential to healing and maintaining strong relationships.

Relational intelligence, in short, invites us to look beyond the immediate and build relationships that are a source of growth and satisfaction. Whether in our day-to-day connections or in marriage, developing relational skills, cultivating gratitude and committing to hopeful engagement are critical to maintaining strong and meaningful bonds. In the end, our relationships not only define us, but also transform us, giving us the opportunity to be better versions of ourselves.

Link to the complete session

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