How To Maintain Relationships

We interact with people each day whether it be through online websites or social media platforms on our phones and devices. A major driving factor for online communication is the relationship that is built as a result even though we may or may not see each other physically in real life. However, an online connection can never amount to the level of closeness that can be built by communicating with someone in person. On a platform where we immediately need to take into account social cues, body language, hair style, smells, and clothing. All of these factors shape other's opinion of us and can play a role in dictating what type of relationship is formed. For me, I find both online and in-person relationships crucial to the success of our species. We can't grow without having other people in our lives to collaborate and share ideas with as much as we would love to be the skilled Iron Man who creates in his basement or the Bruce Wayne who seems self-made. Ultimately, these individuals did have people in their lives who helped them excel in their work on a daily basis. How did they build these friendships and maintain them is an even bigger questions so here's some helpful tips for you to build your ever growing roster of heroes.

Accept the invite: If you made great friends, there is a good chance you may at some point be asked to hang out on certain occasions. It's important to establish yourself as someone who shows up for your friends and is able to contribute to the conversation. Not only do they want you there, but they also want to hear from you, specifically, your thoughts and opinions on different matters. If you aren't someone who gets invited to hangouts, this is the easiest part, you actually get to plan the hangout. It doesn't have to be so extravagant but it should be simple like watching a cool movie that you may all enjoy or playing a fun video game, or making a random funny video for Tiktok, Twitch, or Youtube. During these coronavirus times, it probably would be best not to invite too much people over though. Focus on keeping the get together simple. Recently, I planned a hangout with friends so we can practice and enjoy cooking some new foods together. As a result, we enjoyed friendly conversations and had a delicious meal by the end of the night.

Share What Excites You: If you recently, saw a new meme or found a new article in the news about a topic that may interest one of your friends. Press the "share" button and send it their way. You may get a response or left on read but the fact that you took some time to share something cool you found on a mutual interest with your friend shows that you care and could possibly be a good topic for discussion the next time you meet up together.

Examine Their Goals: What are your friends working towards in their lives? Maybe they're just trying to get by, start a family, or just do well at their job and one day get that promotion. You'll never know if you don't ask. You can easily get your friends fired up about their passions and they may associate you when they think of achieving them. One of the best things you can do for a friend is to provide tips or solutions on how they can even possibly reach their goal faster. As the saying goes, if you want to grow, go together.

Talk About Yourself: A great way to keep the conversation going with your group of friends is to share a bit of information about yourself such as your hobbies, interests, etc. These can easily become topics of discussion and can also weigh whether or not your friends may share similar interests.

Go On A Trip: Maybe there's a place in your hometown you haven't explored and would like to plan a trip. Try inviting some of your friends. Of course, people may be busy but if you invite enough people you're bound to get a few yesses. Keep an open mind because this is where a lot of bonding will take place. It's similar on going on a quest or adventure with your cast of heroes to a far out land!

I hope you found something helpful here.