A lot of times, young people program their minds to think that self-exclusion is better than being involved with people. To some extent, this is true; this way of thinking becomes valid when the people you associate with become a liability to growth. But if you manage to surround yourself with people who are always challenging you to be the better version of yourself, you begin to realize the importance of healthy friendships. There’s one thing I always keep in mind: it is that there is someone for everyone. The fact that you don’t “fit” in a particular sect does not mean you are meant to be alone; you just haven’t found the right people. Aside from growth, having the right group of friends around also helps, especially in times of emotional and mental emptiness.
In this post, we seek to highlight some salient points to help keep and maintain healthy friendships.
Point 1: Communication and comprehension
Communication is a very important part of keeping healthy friendships. It wouldn’t be wise of you to leave your friends to assumptions. Try your best to be transparent about matters concerning the relationship. As much as you can, try to have regular checkups. This can be done in person or virtually. Communication is not always about you talking; you should also try to be an active listener. Be there for your friends as much as they are there for you. Another underrated way to keep healthy friendships is comprehension. It is one thing to communicate and another to comprehend what is being communicated. Try your best to make sure your friends understand whatever it is you are trying to communicate, just so petty misunderstandings can be avoided.
Point 2: Show appreciation.
You should always show appreciation even for the smallest things your friends do for you. You can also send a sweet message to make them feel known and loved. These small gestures go a long way to strengthening bonds and relations. You should also try your best to celebrate milestones like birthdays and anniversaries as well. These serve as events that better help bond the friendship.
Point 3: Support each other.
There is a popular saying that goes like this: “A friend who helps a friend in need is a friend indeed,” meaning you should try your best to be there for your friends in difficult times. Offer assistance willingly whenever they face difficulties, and also be each other’s motivation. Push yourselves to break the walls of your comfort zone.
Point 4: Resolve conflicts positively.
You should be able to address conflicts as they happen and not postpone the resolutions. If possible, tackle the problems even before they escalate.
Try as much as possible to stay calm during tense moments. Here are a few tips on how to discuss conflicts without escalating tension:
1. Choose the right place and time
2. Be an active listener
3. Try not to deviate from the issue. Address the issue, not the person
4. Acknowledge their emotions
5. Stay calm
6. Agree to disagree.
Last but not least, apologize when you’re wrong and be willing to forgive, too.
Young people often have a belief that unhealthy associations are less preferable than self-exclusion. Growth may be blocked by some friends. It is important that you surround yourself with those supportive people. Healthy friendships foster emotional resilience and help people develop personally. Key points for maintaining these relationships include communication that is effective, appreciation that is shown, support for one another, and conflicts that are resolved positively. To de-escalate tension, address issues with promptness, as well as actively listen. Acknowledging emotions also helps. Forgiveness strengthens bonds, and remember to apologize when needed.
I am inviting you to share your thoughts and suggestions on how to maintain and grow healthy friendships. Also, pick up your phone or visit that one friend or friends you haven’t heard from in a while and reconnect with them
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