Relationships are a beautiful experience. Life becomes more meaningful and colorful when you’re assured of love from family and friends no matter what happens in life. A support network gives you the strength needed to push through all the obstacles that come. You have people to lean on when you need advice or lift your spirits when down.
To have meaningful friendships or relationships starts with how you treat those around you. Kindness, concern, and support to those you love can make a huge difference. While it is not always easy, you need to take risks if you want the trust and love within your circle of friends or family to grow stronger.
Poor relationships are like a card house that can fall apart with just one wrong move. Here are some tips to help you build meaningful friendships.
Be Supportive in All Seasons
If you’re only there for your friends or family when things are rosy and beautiful, you need to cultivate better friendship strategies. Your support and care should be constant at all times.
When a friend or family member has made some mistakes, be supportive as you point out the issues. For instance, when a friend is in jail, naturally, many people cut ties, but a support letter for inmate can drastically show them you care. It can even motivate them to change their ways.
Recognize When Someone Is Hurting
It’s not easy for people to share their issues because they fear being judged or labeled. Those hurting withdraw, lose interest in what’s going on around them and become unresponsive to what is happening. You might feel like the other person doesn’t care about you, but this isn’t necessarily true.
They’re hurt and distracted but need your support now more than ever. Recognizing your friend’s feelings enables you to reach out and offer support and care. Never cut ties when a friend or family member withdraws. First, find out the reason, then act accordingly.
Don’t Take Over
Relationships should be avenues where everyone is free to express their feelings and thoughts without judgment. No one likes controlling, overbearing and intimidating people. The moment you start taking over, you shut down friends or family members.
When they have things going on in their lives, let them decide what they want to do and support them even when you disagree with the choices.
It’s the Small Things That Matter
You don’t have to buy an expensive present to show you care. If your friend or partner is having a hard time with work or school, send a thoughtful note letting them know you understand and are there for them.
Alternatively, help with some of the chores freeing up their time. An encouraging text message while they’re feeling low can help boost their spirits too. Spending quality time together, understanding their preferences, and making them feel loved are the best things you can do to build lasting relationships.
The bottom line is; relationships are as strong as the foundation that holds them. Showing support, care, and love to your loved ones builds a strong foundation that lasts even through troubled times.
What do you think?