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At the end of every week, we'll give you a challenge—something to try that might be outside your regular routine. Each challenge is designed to help you develop one important spiritual habit. This week, it's...

SPEND TIME WITH OTHERS

The people in our lives can have a big impact on our faith—and we can have a big impact on other people's faith too. But that doesn't happen by accident. Today's challenge is going to help you connect with at least one other person in a way that helps you (or maybe even both of you) grow!

Sometimes, during times of conflict, we tend to pull away from the person we're fighting with. We mistake peacekeeping with avoidance. But for us to truly be at peace with others, we have to push past the discomfort, express how we feel, and do whatever we can to make it right.

This week, look for the opportunity to spend time with a person you've been avoiding because of conflict. Set up a time to be together to address the issue between you, not glossing over or downplaying it.

Think about how during this time you can...

• Give a sincere apology. Admit the ways you were wrong, and don't make excuses. During your apology, focus on "I" statements, like "I shouldn't have yelled" or "I feel hurt." Avoid "you" statements like, "You made me mad" or "You weren't even listening to me."
• Talk about what you hope your relationship could look like going forward. This could be asking if they think things can return to normal, or you might decide some space would be best.
• Ask how they're feeling and truly listen. If you're someone who tends to rush forward in a conversation or gets distracted by other things, try a physical prompt to help you. Place your hands, palms up, on your lap. This will remind you to keep your ears and your heart open to the other person.
• Together, create a plan for what you want to do next. It might be that when the conversation is over, it's best to go on your way and give each other space. Or you might continue your talk by doing something fun, like grabbing ice cream or playing basketball together.