It can be rewarding and trying to have a relationship with a brother.There are a lot of factors that can make it difficult to feel close to your sibling.It is worth investing in the relationship because your brother will always be with you.You can grow closer to your brother if you improve communication, set clear boundaries, and make sure you spend quality time together.
Step 1: Good listening skills will show you care.
If you want to build a relationship, it's important that you have good listening skills.Don't interrupt your brother when he is talking.Show him that you heard him when you repeat what he said in your own words.If he said, "I am really excited for my soccer game this weekend, but I am also nervous because we might lose."You could say that it can be intimidating to play a top ranked team.
Step 2: Fights should be stopped before they start.
Fights start over small things and get out of hand.To de-escalate the situation, count to ten in your head, and try to find a point of agreement.If your brother says, "I hate it when you hum that tune," don't fight back.Try agreeing that it can be annoying.You might get angry, but it will work like a charm.
Step 3: You can use "I" statements to express your point of view.
If you want your brother to understand how difficult it is, frame it in terms of how it makes you feel.Don't blame him or focus on what he did wrong.It would be better to say, "You always eat my desserts when I leave them in the refrigerator," instead of "I'm really disappointed because I was saving that cake and looking forward to it."
Step 4: You shouldn't make assumptions about your brother's feelings.
You might think you know your brother better than anyone else, but these assumptions often exaggerate or oversimplify things.Ask questions to learn more about your brother's point of view.Don't assume your brother is just being rude.It seems a little off between us.What are things doing?It is possible to make a list of questions you would like to ask him if you do not know how to start.
Step 5: Discuss responsibilities openly and often.
Discuss responsibilities like the chores or caring for elderly parents.If one person starts to feel overwhelmed, revisit these topics on a regular basis.
Step 6: They should respect each other's space.
It's possible that you want to be near your brother.It's important to know if he needs to spend time alone or with others.Rather than showing up at his home on a regular basis, make plans in advance.Don't barge into his room if you're still living at home.
Step 7: Communication expectations and norms can be set.
To avoid disturbing each other, set "no call periods" when it comes to technology.Conversation topics should be considered carefully.If you want to address grievances in a constructive way, you need to set an intention.Siblings have a lot of bad and good memories.It can be toxic to bring up bad memories in order to hurt the other.If you have unresolved feelings, it's important to talk them out with your brother.Let them go after they're resolved.
Step 8: Don't boss your brother around.
Siblings overstep boundaries because they think they know what's best for each other.Listen to your brother's desires and goals.If he is in danger, try to accept his decisions even if they aren't in line with your values.If your brother is using drugs or abusing alcohol, join a support group and learn how you can help him.
Step 9: Rules for borrowing should be written down.
You should not assume that your brother knows when to return an item or pay you back.Even if you say it out loud to him, he might not hear it.Write it down in writing.Just to confirm, can you return my car Saturday by 11am?You can use online templates for important issues.If you're still young, you should ask your parents to write down rules for sharing.
Step 10: Attend meaningful events in your brother's life.
His daughter's recital, sports games, birthdays, and other big events are on your calendar.Text him to know you're excited.Make sure you are on time.
Step 11: You can schedule fun activities with your brother.
Bond with your brother by spending quality time together.If you want to bring people closer, consider projects like repairing a bike or baking a cake.
Step 12: Start sibling rituals.
Quality time with your brother will be guaranteed if you have regular activities on the calendar.You can plan an annual event like a camping trip if you plan a weekly activity like watching the same show.You should consider reviving old rituals if you haven't done them in awhile.
Step 13: You should include the people you care about in some activities.
There are more ways to get closer than one-on-one activities.He could invite his partner to some activities or spend time with a mutual friend.