WAYS TO MAINTAIN A LONG-LASTING FRIENDSHIP
A friend is probably one of the most significant and influential forms of connections you will ever have. Friends are someone you can confide in and share intimate details with; you play a significant role in each other’s life. They make you feel secure and at home because you know that the people you care about adore and cherish you. So, here are ways to be a good friend.
- Listen and remember
As a friend, we often have to listen to our friend’s stories and experiences. A small group of us wait for our turn to speak so that we can each tell our own story. We don’t give each other any respect. Information transmission does not equate to conversation, even if you can hear what someone is saying. In any relationship, listening is crucial, yet it only accounts for half of the equation. Remembering what was mentioned demonstrates your concern and frequent consideration for your friend.
Show real curiosity. Shut off your phone. In other words, out of sight. Participate actively in the discussion. Be interested in what your friend is saying, not saying, and the potential direction of the conversation. When your friend confides in you something difficult, pay close attention and follow up later. Find out whether they feel better the following day. Even if your friend gives you a joke, keep it in mind so you can think about it later when things get tough. Make it clear to your friend that you are constantly attentive.
- Make time for each other
In high school, we often see our friends every day. Due to the fact that you saw them every day, the distance was never an issue. Adult friendships take a little more effort to maintain. Regardless of how busy your schedule might be, make time for your friend. It might take place over the phone, over a video conference, or over lunch. Texting is not taken into account! It’s crucial to get together in person for conversations that you’ll remember.
- Be open-minded
Having an open mind is the key to being a good friend. Being open-minded lets your friend be who they really are, especially when making decisions. You show that you are understanding and encouraging by remaining impartial and avoiding introducing your own biases into your friend’s decision-making.
- Small gestures make a big difference
Because you care to take the time to understand your friend’s heart, a good friend pays attention to the smallest details. Even tiny acts of kindness can go a long way in fostering relationships with friends who might not always get the one-on-one time you both would like. Technology has made it much simpler to express our affection for friends. For example, sending a photo to your friends, sharing a new song you discovered, or bringing souvenirs from traveling.
- Learn to adapt to change together
Every year, we change and become a new person. As we get older, learn new things, and see new sights, as our thoughts and opinions evolve. True friendship adapts to these changes and develops alongside them while honoring the various paths you may choose. Through everything, it’s critical to continue to love and support one another. Nobody ever said that friendship was simple, but when you discover that one lifetime friend you can always rely on and feel entirely at ease with, it’s worth the effort. A good friend forces you to develop and will let you know when you are headed in the wrong direction. This allows you to develop together and provide support for one another.
Those are some ways to support your friendship. Understanding that someone has your back no matter what defines a true friendship. A trustworthy buddy will look out for you and make sure you’re protected, encouraged, and loved. A good friend will never intentionally influence you to make choices or do acts against your best interests. Your best interests are what a true friend will consider at all times. Being able to connect with others and be a good friend is essential to being healthy, but it’s not the only factor. Understanding your own stories and accepting responsibility for the future are the keys to wellness.
References
Delony, J. (2022, May 17). How to Be a Good Friend: 6 Qualities. Ramsey Solutions. Retrieved October 19, 2022, from https://www.ramseysolutions.com/relationships/how-to-be-a-good-friend
How to Be a Better Friend. (n.d.). Smarter Living Guides – the New York Times. Retrieved October 19, 2022, from https://www.nytimes.com/guides/smarterliving/how-to-be-a-better-friend
Wilson, K. (2015, February 28). How to Be a Good Friend. Coinstatics. Retrieved October 19, 2022, from https://coinstatics.com/good-friend/