Ways to Become a Better Friend

Summary

Ways to Become a Better Friend
Decades of research confirms that there is almost nothing more essential to a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing than establishing and sustaining friendships. These interpersonal connections, particularly those stretching over decades, represent an invaluable source of support and encouragement, guidance and affirmation.

It is far too easy, however, amid the freneticism that marks 21st century life, to overlook those attributes and even to take your friendships for granted. Fortunately, there are a few simple strategies you can employ to counter those conditions and, indeed, deepen your friendships, to the benefit of yourself and those closest to you.

Tell the Truth: It’s hardly a revelation to note that open communication is vital to an enduring friendship, but bear in mind it does matter what you say and how you say it. Friends should communicate freely but always remember to express their perspectives and feelings from a place of kindness and sensitivity. Also remember in your communication to be a person who stands by his word and keeps his promises. Be the kind of friend that people trust implicitly.

In Friends We Trust: As a corollary, you must also be willing to trust your friends, to take them at their word. Most people feel good about themselves when others put their trust in them, regarding it as a point of pride to be consider trustworthy. The best of friends reciprocate by providing that same trust to others.

Make the Effort: We all lead busy lives, and scheduling conflicts are a real thing, but it is imperative you make yourself available to others, both metaphorically and literally. It only takes a little additional effort to phone a friend or meet them for a drink to catch up on what’s going on in their lives. Put yourself out for a friend, knowing there will soon be a time when you’ll need that friend to be there for you.

No One’s Perfect: Friends must recognize that all people have shortcomings and that is the most natural thing to accept that reality as part of human frailty. Remember not to give up on friends who falter or who might not be as readily present in your life as you might like. Be loyal to your friends will help you build a strong support network.

Always Right Is Wrong: Never assume that your way is the only right way. Instead, grow your ability to observe the world from multiple perspectives. This will help you become more empathetic and empower you to let go of any judgments or biases that might cause conflicts with your friends. Empathy and non-judgment are two essential skills that are like fuel to the fire of deepening relationships.

Learn to Laugh: It’s important to find humor in life and, just as important, learn how to laugh at yourself. You want to be fun to be around; don’t be the “drama queen” in your group of friends.
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At Harmony Communities, we feel strongly that each resident has a sense of home. That they come home from work and feel pride in their environment and in their place in the greater community. That families are comfortable raising children in our neighborhoods, and that couples and singles know that they belong to something bigger than their four walls. In other words, we seek to create harmony within each community, making our communities not just passable, but peaceful, safe, functional, and beautiful.