Cultivating Healthy Friendships

There are many reasons why people are not fulfilled in their relationships. Whether they lack real connection or feel a bit too shallow, sometimes we just can’t seem to pinpoint where the root issue is. But it all actually comes down to this one fundamental key – the lost art of being intentional, of actually choosing people and having them choose us back. Here are some ways you can build and grow healthy friendships.

Let’s quickly reiterate for the people in the back.. Be intentional

Whether you just met them a few weeks ago or you’ve known them a long time but never really tried being intentional with them, you can begin by asking questions to learn more about them. That’s how you find out whether you click with people. And if you happen to click, you will naturally want to know more and share more with them, the more you talk and spend time together. 

Show up for them

When you learn that a friend is going through a challenging time, make sure to show up. A simple call or gesture at the right time could mean a lot to someone when they need it. It’s like carrying them in your heart and being concerned about their lives. And by concern here, we don’t mean worry but rather showing care and understanding – treating people the same way you would want to be treated when you’re in trouble.

Be consistent

You may not be used to it at first but it’s important to prioritize the people you love and actually make time for them, again and again. Of course, you can’t do that with everyone; otherwise, you will spread yourself very thin very quickly. Instead, pick a few who mean the most to you and earn their trust. Consistency is what strengthens a bond in a friendship, and by time, develops valuable memories to look back on and add more to.

Open up

Vulnerability is a big deal in healthy relationships. Research by Brene Brown actually shows that the happiest people are the most fulfilled in their relationships. And the most fulfilled are the ones who chose to be vulnerable. How great is that? Because they showed the people in their lives what was really in their hearts, they were seen, heard and known for who they really are – not some pretty facade or half a reflection of a real person.