Aristotle made an intriguing observation about humans two thousand years ago: people are social creatures. This fundamental truth about human existence informs us that cooperation is the foundation of society. We can perceive this at a fundamental level. Food production necessitates farmers, and health care needs doctors, for example. What makes human society work, however, is not only the ability of all its members to work together to get things done but also their ability to form friendship bonds with one another.
This fact is more important than you realize. According to research, strong social connections improve our health and well-being, help us succeed in our careers, make us more resilient in stressful situations, and improve our overall quality of life.
How can you strengthen your bonds with anyone when friendships are so important? Consider the following suggestions.
1. Maintain a positive attitude and express politeness
When you speak, remember to consider the feelings of others. Before you speak, think about what you’re going to say. And don’t be so self-confident that you refuse to apologize when you say something you didn’t mean.
2. Motivate yourself with authenticity and honesty
The foundations of a healthy partnership are Mutual trust and respect. When you’re honest with others, and they believe you, you’ll be able to establish trust.
3. Avoid concealing your flaws
Many people are hesitant to expose their flaws to others. However, such prudence breeds a false sense of invincibility. You strengthen your bond with another person by sharing your fears, concerns, and uncertainties.
4. Maintain an open mind
A good friend recognizes that his opinions are not the only ones that exist. He values other people’s perspectives and is willing to change his mind when he realizes he has a flawed original understanding.
5. Look for areas of agreement
A good friend understands that they are a part of something much larger. People of various religions, cultures, and races may be included in this larger community. Even if they disagree, good friends look for common ground between their points of view and those of others. Rather than fighting over an issue, they look for areas where compromise is possible and make that compromise a central part of their relationship building.
6. Take the golden rule to a whole new level
You should treat others in the same manner in which you would like to be treated yourself. This rule encapsulates much of what a good friend does: you consider how the other person feels and act on that knowledge. However, the golden rule falls short because it fails to take into account that different people have different preferences and needs. As a result, a good friend goes above and beyond the golden rule to consider each person’s preferences and needs.
7. Send a text to a friend to remind them of a funny memory
An unexpected laugh can do a lot for a person’s mental health. Because of life’s busyness and distractions, you and a close friend may become estranged from time to time. Friendships are strengthened and reconnected via the sharing of amusing memories.
8. Put together a schedule for your next get-together
Good friends look for methods to spend time together that isn’t only about their relationship. ‘ Plan a weekend getaway, go to the movies, or grab some coffee to get started.
9. Tell your friends about your current goals
Sharing your ambitions can be a motivator for one or both of you. You may express an intent because you require assistance, but you may also do so to improve the overall quality of your relationship. It’s not always about getting what you want. It’s all about getting what you need from one another.
10. Discuss recent events in your life
People enjoy reading the news. It’s always more interesting to hear new things rather than rehash old ones. Talking about your recent experiences can inspire you and bring you and your friend closer together. It’s an excellent way to rekindle the relationship.
We’re all in this together, no matter who you are. We all need friends, and you can’t get them if you don’t do anything for them. If your life appears to be stagnant, make a plan to do something meaningful with someone you care about, and you’ll feel better right away.