How to Make Friendships Work

Amy Taylor March 30, 2016

Friendships. They are one of the greatest treasures we can ever have in this world. Having good friends makes us happy and feel more valued, and greatly boosts our physical health. But even the most solid friendships are not immune to challenges. Miscommunication and misunderstanding, lack of quality time together, and changes in personal circumstances are among the most common roadblocks to a strong and healthy social relationship.

Healthy relationships can reduce our day-to-day stress, makes life more enjoyable and fun, and add more years to our age. That is why it is very important that we value it like a very precious gem and make efforts to make it last. How? Here are some great tips to make our social relationships work.

Listen… more.

Listening is central to any form of relationship. Too often, we listen only to relate one’s story to ours. Have you ever got into a conversation with a friend when the topic suddenly shifted from them to you? For instance, a friend told you they find it hard to move on from a failed relationship. Then you pop in to agree and said “Yes, me too!” And you started telling your story. While letting your friend know that you actually understand where they are coming from, this kind of response basically hijacks their moment. They may no longer open up and might feel that you don’t care to know what’s up with them. Listening is central to keeping social relationships healthy. But it is often the most ignored qualities. It may feel like a tough challenge at first but once you listen more and let their story play out, you are likely to discover something in them that you’d never have otherwise.

Remind them that you care.

You might find yourself much busier now than you were a few years back. But regardless of how busy you are, always take time to let them know that you care and that you are just there when they need you. In this age of digital media, keeping in touch is no longer a problem. You can tell your friends how much you care for them by simply sending a text message, an email or a Facebook post. Keeping the connection visible between you and your friends is essential to making the relationship last.

Make quality time up close.

Yes, it is easy to connect using social media but nothing beats a personal and up-close interaction. It doesn’t have to be a daily or a weekly thing if it isn’t possible. Twice or once a month is enough as long as the time spent is well spent together. If you live or work far from your friends, plan out a trip or vacation with them at least once a year. And when you come together, make sure you maximise all the time you have to bond with each other, touch base, and make positive memories that you will all cherish for years to come.

Make each conversation worthwhile.

How often do you peak at your phone when having coffee with your friends? It is hard to stay focused these days when you are bombarded with all sorts of distraction. But in order to make a meaningful conversation, you want to give your friend undivided attention. Listen closely to their words. Examine their body gestures. Put away your mobile phone. And quiet the raging thoughts in your mind.

Encourage and support their dreams.

Let your friend spread their wings and chase their dreams. You shouldn’t bar them from pursuing their passion, even if you don’t think it’s going to work. Give constructive advice but never decide for them. You can only influence and inspire your friends. Discouraging them is one way of pushing them away.

By valuing friendships, you can make your life so much happier. Hope these tips have inspired you to give more love and attention to the people you greatly cherish in this world.