Cultural Notes
Directions：Read the following short passage related to the video you are going to watch.
Simple Ways to Improve Relationships with Family
Family relationships are a massive part of our lives，we can’t live without them.Of course sometimes it is very hard to live with them，but in the long run they are one of the most important things in life，and yet also one of the easiest things to neglect.
Keep in touch—These days technology makes it so easy to keep in touch and yet we still find ourselves drifting apart.Technology can help you keep in touch but it can never replace being together in person.When I travelled overseas I emailed home regularly and Iwas surprised at how well this managed to maintain the relationships，even over an extended period of time.(https://www.daowen.com)
Quality time—If you haven’t had quality time with someone for a while then arrange to do so.Every relationship is different so figure out who you’re neglecting and decide how you can correct this.It can help to pick a family member and think when the last time you had a decent conversation with them was.
Remember birthdays＆other dates—This is essential with family.Some people say they aren’t fussed about whether people remember their birthday but actually everyone appreciates it.How you remember people’s birthdays varies.Depending on how close you are it might just be a text or a phone call，or a present.I’m not too hot at remembering dates so I program them into my mobile phone.With the really important ones I program a reminder in a week ahead of the birthday so I’ve got time to organize a gift.
Listen more—The absolute number one way to improve a relationship is to listen more.And really listen.If you think people aren’t listening to you then chances are you aren’t listening to them either.Set the wheel in motion and listen to them first.Really try to see things from their perspective.If you want people to listen to you then listen to them first.
Look for ways to help them or make their lives better—Do a chore they normally do.Give them a lift somewhere.Help them carry something.
Open up—Tell them how great they are and how much you love having them as a family member.Be specific，tell them what it is that you love about them and why that is such a great thing.