Making friends is challenging in today's predominantly digital age, especially as we head back to school and work. With our lives filled with distractions and social media, it's difficult to find people face-to-face we can connect with. Even when we do find those people, maintaining friendships can be tough when our lives are so chaotic and busy! To make matters worse, movies often portray idealized, everlasting friendships, which can make us feel isolated and like we're the problem when real-life relationships don't always match that perfect image. Here's the good news: a teenager (yes, you read that right!) will be sharing 3 Tips for Making and Keeping Friends in the Real World. Interested? Read more below!
Friendships, right? We've all seen those movies where everything seems so perfect and effortless. It's like there's this one best friend who's always there, no matter what. But let's get real, that's not how it goes down in real life, does it? It's tough, and it can make us feel like we're the only ones going through this stuff. But guess what? You're not alone, my friend. Lots of people go through the challenge of making a friend (especially as we get back to school) and keeping one, even if they don't always talk about it. Here's the deal: friendships change. They evolve just like any other relationship. People grow, they change, their interests shift, and their priorities take different paths. It's natural for friendships to have ups and downs. But, this September for World Friendship Month I will be sharing 3 Tips for Making and Keeping Friends in the Real World Beyond the Screen.
The decline in close friendships and reliance on friends for personal support is a concerning trend in American society. According to the May 2021 American Perspectives Survey, only 59% of Americans report having one person they consider their best friend, while 40% say they do not have a best friend. This marks a significant decrease from 1990 when 75% of Americans reported having a best friend. This decline in close friendships poses a potential problem as it impacts individuals' social connections and support systems, highlighting the need for addressing and nurturing friendships in society. Furthermore, in a world increasingly connected by screens, finding genuine human connection can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Breaking the Myth of a “Perfect Friendship”
Let's debunk the unrealistic portrayals of friendships in movies and social media. Real-life friendships are often messy, filled with ups and downs. It's okay to accept that friendships evolve and change over time.
Trouble Making Face-to-Face Friends (Back to School)
As we return back to school, we have trouble making friends and continuing to keep a connection, especially with the rise of social media and online interactions. By addressing these challenges and taking proactive steps, you can increase your chances of making new friends and building lasting connections. Remember, it's okay to feel nervous or unsure, but with effort and persistence, you can overcome these obstacles and find your place in the social landscape.
A Work in Progress is Normal - Don’t Give Up
When it comes to most everything in life, including making friends, you can’t be perfect at it. But by getting better and better every day, the small successes are very important. Striving for so-called perfection is tiring, so know that every step you make is a step in the right direction. And, we’re all learning new things and continue to be a work in progress. Don’t give up, try not to overthink, and be yourself, because throughout it all, that’s all you can depend on.
3 Tips for Making and Keeping Friends in the Real World:
Breaking the Ice: To connect with someone, offer help, join a club, group, or sport, and then simply strike up a conversation. Once you've initiated contact, introduce yourself and ask them a question about themselves. Show genuine interest in their response by listening attentively. Remember, while it's natural to want to share, the key to building a friendship is making the other person feel heard and valued. Most importantly, instead of overthinking their response, try to be open-minded. Every conversation you start can brighten someone's day and help you step outside your comfort zone.
Take Time for Self-Reflection: Friendships can be emotionally draining at times, so it's important to take time for self-reflection. Assess your own actions and behaviors, and consider if there are any areas where you can improve. Reflect on what you value in a friendship and what you are willing to compromise on. This can help you set healthier boundaries and make decisions that align with your well-being.
Leave a Lasting Impression: Write encouraging notes like "You brighten my day" or "You make me smile" and leave them for your friends in unexpected places: their computer, desk, or even their phone case. When they find them, it will not only make them happy but also fill you with a sense of gratitude for their presence in your life.
Call to Action:
Join us this September for World Friendship Month as we delve deeper into these topics and discover how to foster meaningful connections in the real world. Stay tuned for more insights and tips!
What are your thoughts on friendship? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!
-----
Looking for the perfect present to share with friends and family, or even yourself? Consider my Emotion Cards and Uplift Teens Today book! These gifts can help in the journey towards better mental health. Great thoughtful and kind gifts.
Comments