"Exchange of Value"...approach for positive and productive relationships

As I reflect on the various relationships I have enjoyed throughout my life a somewhat common notion is evident. The notion is that every positive and productive relationship (that has lasted over time) depends on the "Exchange of Value" between the parties involved.

This notion is reflected through the various relationships I have participated in (child/parent; student/teacher; player/coach; husband/wife; father/children; etc.) during the past 74 years.

I think we are born to optimize value we desire while minimizing the value we are asked of in most if not all of the relationships we share with others.

So, just what is the "Value" we are to share?

It seems to me "Value" is associated with resources for living. For example, "time" is a resource required by anything we "do" (including doing nothing). Both parties in a relationship must give time. Another example is "attention" (the brain's attention). If we are willing to share time but, withhold our full attention, the quality of the relationship is affected.

Another resource we "value" is "trust". Perhaps, this is the most important resource expected between the two or more parties in a relationship. The reason is that without "trust" we minimize value given up...If we don't share trust, neither party gives much (if any time), attention, or other resources (like empathy, assistance, quality information, respect, or money).

Over time I have become more conscious about the "Exchange of Value" concept and its relevance with long-term, positive and productive relationships. However, there are times I fall back on what I think is human nature, and strive to minimize the "value" given up in exchange for the "value" desired. This is very evident when I try to imagine the "value of being admitted into Heaven" in exchange for God's call to become who I was created to be!