Friendships are precious gifts that enrich our lives in countless ways. True friends are the ones who stand by us through thick and thin, offering support, laughter, and companionship. Building and maintaining genuine friendships requires time, effort, and a willingness to communicate openly and honestly and with the right elements can grown into a valuable commodity. In order to build true friendship, be authentic. Authenticity fosters trust and creates a safe space for genuine connection to flourish. There is nothing wrong with being vulnerable in the right relationship. Being able to develop an ability to understand and share your inner thoughts with another person without judgement helps to solidify a budding relationship. Actively listening, validating emotions and being there for someone in the time of need also adds value and respect. People tend to gravitate toward empathy, especially if you are reliable. Whether it’s lending an ear, a helping hand, or simply a shoulder to lean on, these are attributes you should look for in choosing a true friend.
Photo by Aman Shrivastava
When starting a new friendship always communicate openly. It’s the key to maintaining any relationship and being open and honest with friends shows them you listen attentively and care about their thoughts and feelings. Another thing to consider is make time for each other. Prioritize your friends by scheduling regular get-togethers, talk to each other on the phone, even video chats are useful in staying connected. It helps to nurture your bond. With that being said, disagreements and conflicts are a natural part of any friendship. When conflicts arise, address them calmly and respectfully in an effort to understand each other’s perspectives and finding common ground for resolution. Boundaries are essential in any healthy relationship. Communicate your needs and boundaries clearly, and respect your friend’s boundaries as well to maintain mutual respect and understanding. Remember, no friendship is perfect, and mistakes will be made along the way. Practice forgiveness and let go of grudges so the friendship can move forward organically. True friends rejoice in each other’s victories and celebrate each other’s achievements, big or small. The important thing here is to show genuine support and encouragement. Cultivate your friendships with care and watch them blossom into meaningful and lasting bonds.