Becoming a good friend: 7 Strategies for a Truly Great Relationship
Embracing a solid friendship is one of life's finest investments, both for your wellbeing and that of your companion. Though you might be cautious when picking your friends, don't forget the importance of being a good friend yourself.
Your wellbeing, happiness, and mental health are directly associated with the acts of caring, contributing to community, and looking after others. However, steer away from excessive self-centeredness and ensure you give time to self-care too.
To be a faithful friend, consider these strategies:
Be a Mindful Friend
1. Be Self-Aware
Cultivate self-awareness to be a better friend. Be attentive to how your emotions and actions impact others. Maintain a balance between letting your guard down and showing consideration for your friend's sensitivities.
2. Be Intentional
Intentional actions and decisions lead to strong friendships. Be conscious of the impact of your words and behaviors, and be accountable for how you treat your friend. Express gratitude regularly and maintain the essential aspects of friendships.
3. Be Trustworthy
Loyalty is a crucial aspect of friendship. Keep your friend's secrets and show reliability by fulfilling both task-oriented and emotional commitments. Best friends offer both task and relationship trust.
4. Be Supportive
Prioritize your friend and offer emotional support during tough times. Be a good listener and show empathy. Celebrate your friend's successes as eagerly as you would their failures.
5. Be Inspiring
The company you keep influences your decisions. Encourage your friend to achieve their goals and align with their ambitions. Your influence as a good friend can be transformative.
6. Be Reliable
Reliability is crucial in an unpredictable world. Be dependable by reaching out frequently and maintaining consistent behavior. People trust what they understand.
7. Be Forgiving
Acknowledge your own and your friend's mistakes, apologize when necessary, and look ahead without dwelling on past issues. Communication and openness are essential in resolving conflicts and deepening your bond as friends.
Being a devoted friend is beneficial for both you and your companion. Strengthen friendships and relationships by practicing mindfulness and implementing these simple strategies.
Practicing mindfulness and being intentional in your actions can help you navigate how to make a friend and foster good friendships. Cultivating trustworthy, supportive, inspiring, reliable, and forgiving behaviors towards your friend will strengthen your friendships and positively impact both your wellbeing and theirs.
