Friendships can improve your health, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other benefits of cultivating close friendships include reducing stress, increasing your sense of belonging and helping you get through difficult times, such as an illness, the loss of a job or divorce. While some people have trouble meeting and starting friendships, the most difficult part might be to grow that initial friendship into a great one. As with many things in life, friendships grow over time and only when you put effort into the process.
Step 1
Open yourself to the possibility of making new friends. Cultivating the friendships you already have is a good idea, but meeting new people will increase your chances of making deep connections. The Better Health Channel recommends joining classes or groups on a topic you're passionate about, whether that's gardening, movies or hiking. Go to co-worker events, and don't turn down invitations to social gatherings or parties. Networking is important to make new friendships.
Step 2
Accept others for who they are. According to the Better Health Channel, demanding that others act like we do or share our beliefs and attitudes can end up destroying a friendship. Instead, enjoy your differences and learn from them, so you can grow in the friendship but also as a person.
Step 3
Grow the friendship slowly. Friendships take time to become strong, so cultivate them. Keep in touch with each other no matter how busy you are. Be there not only for the fun times, but also when stress and sadness makes things difficult. As you share and experience things together, the relationship will grow stronger.
Step 4
Make time for friends. Everybody has problems and a busy schedule, but if you want to develop great friendships, you'll need to make time for others. Show interest and be honestly happy when friends achieve something or share important news. During difficult times, offer support and a friendly ear. The Mayo Clinic points out that is important not to compete with friends or fight over unhealthy rivalries.
Tips and Warnings
- While it's important to keep in touch with friends, don't go overboard. Overwhelming somebody with phone calls or emails can make you seem desperate and can be a turn-off. The same is true if you're too critical, either of yourself or others; relentless complaining and negativity are bothersome and exhausting.
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