Emotional bank accounts

We've always had this book sitting on our bookshelf called The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. I think someone probably gave it Jimmy for his high school graduation or something. Anyway, I've always wanted to read it but never had the time. The other day I noticed we had the series of cassette tapes (yes that's how old it is!) that go with it. So guess what we've been listening to in the car!?! I'll admit, my family doesn't enjoy it as much as I do!

One of my favorite things Covey talks about is a person's emotional bank account. Basically, anyone we have a relationship with, whether it be our family, friends, or coworkers, we maintain a personal "emotional" bank account with them. It starts out neutral and then we either make deposits or withdrawals from it. The whole idea is centered around trust. When we make deposits into someones e.b.a. their trust, confidence, and fondness for us grows as does the relationship. When there is a positive balance in the e.b.a., there is greater tolerance for mistakes and open communication still occurs. When we repeatedly make withdrawals (like with broken promises for example) our bank accounts get low or overdrawn resulting in mistrust and bitterness.

Covey talks about six ways to make deposits into these emotional bank accounts:
1. Understanding the individual
2. Keeping commitments
3. Clarifying expectations
4. Attending to the little things
5. Showing personal integrity
6. Apologizing sincerely when we make a withdrawal

Of course he goes into great detail about each of these but you get the picture.

Anyway, I'm just trying to improve myself and the lives of others and I wanted to share this bit of information with you : )