Having friends who possess qualities such as generosity, loyalty, and supportiveness are like precious gems – quite rare. That is why it is important to build and hold onto those positive friendships you have for a lifetime.
If you feel you will have difficulty making a friendship last for eternity, consider the following tips to assist you in maintaining your companionship:
Make room for change and growth
No matter the age you were when you started the friendship, change and growth is bound to happen. Psychology Today (the world’s largest online mental health and behavioural science destination) shares that we should not let life transitions or lifestyle differences tear friendships apart. “Through marriage and children, geographic moves, divorce, religious awakenings or disillusionment, and differences in career trajectories or differing socio-economic status, friendships can endure if friends hold each other close emotionally.”
Avoid judgement
Power of Positivity – a publication that celebrates the lifestyle of positive thinking and attitude – explains that when you know someone for a long time, their flaws become apparent. Do not let trivial matters be the cause of a dying friendship. Instead, be there for your friend, without judgement.
Spend time with each other
The above-mentioned info hub also states that a relationship cannot be expected to blossom if you are not spending time with one another. Although you do not need to be around your friends all the time, it is best to be around them enough to feel as though you are growing with them.
Reciprocate acts of kindness
Acts of kindness in a friendship – such as doing favours, keeping secrets, drying tears, or just listening when there is nothing to be said – need to go both ways to make a friendship last, says Psychology Today. Friends should be willing and able to give as well as benefit from the relationship.
Stay in touch
A friendship does not have to end if your friend moves away. Power of Positivity says, “Yes, it might be changing, but changes aren’t necessarily bad. You want to keep in touch in a meaningful way.” This can be done through texts, emails and phone calls. When you do get a chance to see your friend again, take advantage of the moment.
Also see: Friendship codes not to break
