The Perfect Guide to Maintaining A Friendship
Friendships are important because, with proper maintenance.. they can be lifelong.
Unless both people stay in touch, then the friendship is doomed. It takes work to maintain.
Courtesy calls when one or both people are away help keep the relationship alive.
Kind words when the other person is down helps strengthen the friendship.
Yearly outings where you and your friend travel is also important.
Only comfort a friend when you've had time to think about what to say.
Utilize friendship building tools like books on relationships, they are priceless.
Realize that time is needed to invest in a friendship. Make AND take time.
Friends is a term I think many use but few understand the value of it. Do you?
Remembering the good times and reflecting over the past together creates nostalgia. Do this with them.
Independence is vital to a friendship. BE their friend, do not over stay your welcome.
Exercise together. Many friendships are strengthened in the gym.
Never take your friend or their time for granted. The world does NOT revolve around you.
Digest whatever they say to you before responding. DO NOT think of your response WHILE they are still talking.
Simplicity is important. Remember, it's the little things that matter.
Give and take. All relationships are based on this principle. A friendship isn't parasitic, it's mutualistic.
Ignite a fire toward their passions and dreams. What are they passionate about? Be supportive and encouraging.
Recognizing that a friendship takes two to tango is also important. You're not in it by yourself. Nor, are they.
Learn from the subtleties. 95% of communication is non-verbal, learn how to read the subtle signs they give off.
Feel out their feelings. A real friend know what their friend is thinking/feeling before they even utter a word.
Raise your friend up. Compliment your friend, give sincere compliments.. not facetious flattery.
Instill words of wisdom to your friend. Friends are there to help each other grow. Are you helping or hindering them?
Enrich their day with gifts. Friends like that you think about them out of the blue. Show your thoughtfulness by buying them a gift at random sometime.
Never disrespect or belittle their thoughts, ideas or opinions. Respect their mind, and above all, respect them.
Don't ever take things at face value. Read between the lines. There may be a double meaning in the things they tell you. :shadewink:
