Friendships grow and develop throughout our lifetimes, from playing catch in the school playground to going out for coffee as adults. The human interaction that friendships provide is invaluable to our well-being. We turn to our friends for many reasons, whether it’s to lift our spirits during a difficult time or to celebrate a major milestone. Having the support of friends at any age helps improve our happiness.
We often assume that a large friendship group is better. However, quality over quantity prevails. Whilst it’s good to have a diverse range of acquaintances, building meaningful relationships with a small number of people, will help you to develop a stronger support network. A support network who are there when you need them the most.
Read on to learn more about building strong friendships.
Keeping in Touch Regularly
Many of us are guilty of it, saying, ‘see you soon’ with good intentions and before you know it, weeks have passed. Keeping an eye on time is important when it comes to maintaining close relationships. Don’t just send a message to congratulate them on an accomplishment but organize a catch-up to discuss life in general too. It’s talking about life as a whole that helps build strong relationships.
Keep a Record of Important Dates
Noting down important milestones such as birthdays and wedding anniversaries is an easy way to show how much you care. If your friend has a birthday coming up you can buy them a thoughtful card and present, showering them in affection. Or how about organizing a lavish birthday surprise, getting friends and family together to continue the birthday celebrations.
Open up
Sharing your vulnerabilities with a close friend will tighten the bond of trust between you. Knowing each other in detail will strengthen the support you are able to provide one another. If a friend has shared a vulnerability with you, it’s important to check in on them. Try asking if they would like to go out for the day or meet for a drink.
Send a Comical Text about your Day
Laughter is known to improve our health and wellbeing. So why not send a funny text message about your day; how you just tripped over in front of the CEO or got locked in the loo. Who knows, you may receive a comical text back too.
Nostalgia is a good way of bringing friends closer together. Share a memory and discuss all the things you loved about that moment in time. Discussing memories is also a great advocate for planning new ones.
Check-in with your friends today, even if it’s just to send a comical text.
