To be an intentional woman, it helps to have intentional habits.

The five essential areas of our life—health, finances, work, relationships and faith--they interconnect, so if we have good relationships, it makes all the other elements run more smoothly.

The challenge with relationships is that they take time, and they often take forgiveness. Author Anne Lamott says the quickest prayers are, “Help me, help me” and “Thank you, thank you.” Aren’t those prayers we could say every day in regard to relationships? We’re thankful for these friends and family members, but we routinely need help in getting along with them.

So prayer is an excellent habit to cultivate when it comes to relationships. Pray for those close to you, and pray that you bless them. When it comes to forgiveness, I heard good advice recently. When you think of the person that you may have anger toward, say to yourself, "I forgive you in Jesus' name."

Contact is another good habit. If you like someone, spend time with him or her. It’s so much easier these days with inexpensive phone service, Skype and social media. But I've noticed people still like the old-fashioned touch, such as a visit or a letter.

You might have ideas of your own. What habits help you keep intentional relationships?