Friendships seem to come and go throughout the lives of most adults, and that is why a truly lasting friendship is so special and unique. It is rare that two people care enough about each other that they stay in touch for years – even entire lifetimes – no matter what is going on in their individual lives or how far apart they may live from one another.
If you are lucky enough to have a friendship like this and are looking for new ways to nurture it, or you have a budding friendship that you would like to see grow into a lasting one, read on. Here are 3 secrets to a lasting friendship.
Make Them A Priority
Making your close friends a priority is a great way to show them how much you love and cherish them. For example, you may need to manage your business’s finances first, but once that is done be sure to give your friend a call so that they know you are thinking of them. Once you have completed your household and work responsibilities, make plans to hang out at a time that works well for you both. Doing this on a regular basis will help to strengthen your bond and raise trust levels so that your friendship will last for many years to come.
Be Honest
Being honest with your friends is important because no true friendship can be built on lies. Tell them about how you are feeling and let them know if they have hurt you in any way so that they can give a genuine apology and you can move on. Of course, this goes both ways and your friend will need to be honest with you too in order for the friendship to stand the test of time.
Give Space
Being in a close and lasting friendship with someone doesn’t require you to spend every moment with them or even speak to them every single day. Part of what is great about mature friendships is that both parties understand how busy life can get and that sometimes space is needed even between the best of friends.
If you feel like your friend needs a little space, give that to them! Let them know that you are there when they are ready to talk or if they need a shoulder to lean on, but don’t pressure them to see you or talk to you if they don’t seem interested in doing so right now.
Some of the healthiest relationships, whether romantic or platonic, are the ones that value their time apart. Taking space doesn’t have to be a negative thing! In truth, the more space you take, the more precious your moments will be together when you’re each done doing your own thing.
Nurturing a friendship so that it lasts forever is not easy to do which is why these types of friendships are so rare and beautiful. Hopefully, these tips can help you to create and keep lasting friendships that will help bring so much fulfillment to your life!