The Art of Making Valuable Friendships
Bisila Bokoko
United Nations Honoree & Executive Chair I Global Leadership Speaker I Entrepreneur I Author
We live in a time when it has become challenging to find deep friendships – those that really have meaning. If your purpose is to create enriching human relationships, you have come to the right place.
In this article, I’ll be telling you about the art and importance of making valuable friendships and how authenticity and gratitude are the brushstrokes that will bring meaningful connections to life.
Disconnect to Connect
In a world that revolves around immediacy and virtual connection, we often find ourselves immersed in superficial relationships.?
Yes, we meet a lot of people around us and on social media. We accumulate followers and “friends”, but deep down, we all yearn for something more authentic.
True friendship is not about what you receive, but what you are willing to give.?
To do this, you need to be open to building meaningful friendships. Right now, you are probably wondering how this is achieved.
A meaningful friendship is one that moves away from the superficiality of appearances and enters into meaningful conversations and bonds that last over time.
Remember; human beings want to avoid ephemeral connections. We seek authenticity – those relationships in which we can be ourselves without fear of judgment.?
Friendships Simmer
Let me let you in on a secret: To have true friends, you must first be a good friend.
Cultivating authentic and lasting relationships requires patience, dedication and, above all, being a good friend from the start. Therefore, I invite you to reflect on the importance of prioritizing these relationships.?
Don’t forget that making valuable friendships is an art that positively impacts our lives and our emotional health. Shared laughter, deep conversations, and mutual support are key ingredients for a full and happy life.
Now, I will share with you some tips that have helped me to make and maintain valuable friendships:
Genuine Interest
Ask your friends about their dreams, joys, and challenges. Keep in mind that empathy is the foundation of any meaningful friendship.
Sincerity and Authenticity
Show yourself without masks. Be yourself and allow them to be too.?
True friendships are built on authenticity.
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Unconditional Support
Unconditional support is present in both the good and not-so-good times.
A true friend is one who supports you unconditionally; one who is there when you need them most. Offer your shoulder to cry and celebrate their triumphs as if they were your own.
Quality Time
In a fast-paced world, time has become a valuable resource. Make time for your friends.
Organize meetings, outings or even video calls. Don’t forget that quality trumps quantity.
Appreciation and Gratitude
Show your appreciation and express your gratitude. Don’t underestimate the power of a simple “thank you” or a gesture of appreciation.?
Reciprocity strengthens bonds and creates a positive atmosphere.
Cultivate new friendships
Don’t be afraid to open yourself up to new friendships. Life is full of amazing people waiting to be discovered.?
If you are someone who struggles to make friends and socialize, I advise you to participate in activities that you are passionate about. Attend events and keep your heart open to new connections.
Resolve Conflicts Constructively
In all relationships, disagreements are inevitable. The key is to approach conflict constructively.
Communicate your feelings openly and listen to the perspectives of others. Peaceful resolution will strengthen the friendship.
Just as we create authentic bonds, we also build shared stories filled with laughter, support, and unforgettable moments.
Practice the art of making valuable friendships and integrate them into your daily life. Be an authentic friend, show appreciation, and spend quality time with those people who really matter.
Remember that together we can inspire and motivate others on this journey to deeper, more meaningful relationships.
The adventure of building authentic friendships is just beginning, and you are a critical part of this journey to genuine connection.?
Bisila Bokoko