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Everyone has their own version of what friendship looks like. Some friendships can be closer than others, but no matter the situation there is always room for growth. I am eternally grateful for the bonds I have made with my friends thus far and with that being said, there are some techniques and tips that have been helpful for me through the years to maintain the strong relationships that I have with them.
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Communication
Being able to talk to your friends when something is bothering you is beyond important because when you don’t communicate, that can result unwanted tension amongst each other and the person never knowing how you truly feel. Sometimes, it can be very hard for me say when something is bothering me because I am very non-confrontational. However, if you want those long-term friendships, the serious conversations are necessary. Don’t let your emotions fester because you won’t only be hurting the friendship, but your mental health as well.
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Honesty
This one ties in with communication because they are both the foundation of a good friendship. Communication and honesty coincide with one another and are equally important. When I went into high school, I wanted to be a completely different person than myself, because I was meeting new people who had no idea who I was. This was one of the biggest mistakes I made in high school. I had this preconceived idea that I would make so many friends being a different person than who I actually was. Once I started being more like myself, I started making stronger bonds with people. It is such a rewarding experience to have friends that love and appreciate you for you.
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Reliability
In a friendship, there is nothing I appreciate more than when a friend is simply just there for me. When I say this, I don’t mean hanging out with that person every single day, but knowing that no matter how much time has passed you can always rely on them. I know that whenever my friends ask me for help I am there. I hate saying no because I will never surpass an opportunity to see them. Whenever someone makes a plan to hang out I am there 9 out of 10 times. The one time being in case of an emergency where I have to be somewhere else. My point is always be there for your friends, because you would hope for the same in return. “Good friends are like stars, you don’t always see them but you know they’re always there”.
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Maturity
Growing up with a lot of the same friends my whole life, I have realized that sometimes you have to just be the bigger person. Being able to admit when you’re wrong, apologize, and move forward. In every argument there are always two sides, nobody is ever completely right or completely wrong so take accountability for your actions. Doing this will encourage the other person to do the same, and therefore the friendship can thrive. Sometimes we can be so hung up on our own problems that it can be hard to take a step back and see the situation from the other person’s perspective. This is when having a mature mindset will really come in handy.
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Right now, I can confidently say that I am proud of the friendships I have maintained over the years. All my friends teach me so much and I don’t know what I would do without them. I wish that everyone reading this can say the same, and that this article will help make your friendships grow and strengthen.
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Thanks for reading, V
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