ADVICE ON FRIENDSHIP

We long for an in-depth relationship of trust, support and intimacy. The challenge is that while we want something, a friend, we have to “give to get.” Meeting the relational needs of another person is the foundation of a friendship.

Letting our needs be known is a risk. In reaching out to someone for companionship we may be turned down and hurt. One person may feel an attraction to another but cannot be totally certain of the other's response.

This sense of being drawn to another can arise from the same type of chemistry that sparks a love relationship. However, one person must take the risk of reaching out for a friendship to begin.

It takes an investment of time to know if the person we desire as a friend returns that level of commitment.

Sometimes those who feel a lack of friends tend to be more introverted or have developed habits that keep them alone. Common sense advice on friendship to those who are loners is to take that initial risk of putting yourself in the company of those who might become friends.

Scary as it may seem, the initial risk that must be taken is to put oneself in social or group situations where there is the possibility of interaction with others.

Find an activity that you love so much you can’t wait to do it. A whole new world of friendships can open up to you when you find an activity you have a passion for. Be open to meeting new friends who share your interests. This is just the first of many steps to lasting friendship.

Friendships begin in many ways. Once you have captured the attention of another person or vice-versa, you must expand on that original attraction. Short and to-the-point friendship advice is: have frequent contact and conversation. This is what opens the door to greater possibilities and deeper levels of friendship.

We seek friendship because most of us realize that it can be one of the most rewarding of human experiences.