Casual relationships are those you have with the people you encounter every day -- who are not friends, family members or people with whom you have an intimate relationship. For example, one person may be a teacher or some new guy or girl you don't yet know. You might wonder why it is important to have a healthy relationship with someone you barely know.

Well, all relationships start with a casual relationship. An unhealthy casual relationship without mutual respect will lead to a friendship or an intimate relationship without respect. The precedents that you set at the beginning of a casual relationship do not disappear.

These relationships can occur on both a professional level, including teachers, clergy and medical professionals, or as acquaintances, such as people you know and recognize in passing.

It is important to maintain healthy relationships with the professionals who serve you. These are probably people you look up to for their skills and education, and by showing your respect and learning from these individuals, you will develop important skills that you can apply in your other relationships.

While you may not love learning about the Civil War, your history teacher could be a valuable resource in writing a college recommendation letter. And while doctors' appointments may be unpleasant, it is your doctor who makes sure that you stay healthy and fit. By respecting the professionals you interact with, you not only benefit yourself, but you also help your other relationships. By learning professional communication skills and trusting those with more experience, you learn to be a balanced member of an intimate relationship.

Casual acquaintances are simple relationships that are easily maintained. When you pass someone you recognize on the street, by simply respecting the person and smiling or saying hello, you are communicating in an appropriate manner. By portraying yourself in public as polite and friendly, people will be drawn to you and you will likely have healthier intimate and romantic relationships.

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