We often neglect them (or are neglected) because of life changes such as relocation, employment, marriage, children - because it is a common belief that "existence" is most important. But when friendship is no longer among the priorities, we lose a valuable source of positive energy that ennobles life and improves health.
Friends can be a lifeline when we run into doubts and problems or we just need a break and relief from the usual daily routine. Friendships are not binding in the way that relatives and partners are, so friends can look at the situation we are in much more objectively.
Friendship brings satisfaction, the freedom to be what we truly are, and the joy of being able to share it with someone. Friends can help us get to know ourselves better and have more self-confidence.
The healing power of friendship
Just as the proverb says that a tree is held by its roots and a man by his friends, numerous studies have shown that friendship has healing powers. People with close friendships tolerate stress better, have lower blood pressure, are more vital and long-lived. Friendship strengthens the immune system, and thus resistance to infections and diseases.
According to world statistics, lonely people are three times more likely to die from heart disease, and on average live five years shorter than those who have close friends.
Often friends encourage us to have healthy habits - to move more, eat better and go to medical check-ups, and at the same time keep us mentally clear, which reduces the risk of dementia. Close friendships are also responsible for the lower risk of cancer, and in patients they increase the chances of a cure many times over. Therefore, never give up phoning, correspondence, going out with friends.
Here are some helpful tips:
You really don't need a special occasion to call a friend, just do it - because we share everything with real friends, both small and big things in life.
No matter how busy you are, you can always set aside some time for friends. Agree that you will definitely hear or meet at certain times - for example, go for a walk or coffee once a week, meet for lunch once a month or (if you live far from each other) organize a friendly gathering or trip at least once a year.
Try to listen more and less to "preach" and give advice. Accept and respect other people's choices and decisions.
In friendship, quality is more important than quantity. You don’t need to have a bunch of friends, it’s much more important to know who you can really trust and give him the same in return.
People change with age, and so do friendships. Don’t be afraid to give up relationships that burden and exhaust you, and don’t be afraid to make new friendships either.
In front of friends you should not be ashamed of illness, divorce, job loss and other adverse events. As the old saying goes: friends know each other in trouble.
It’s wonderful to have friends, but don’t be addicted to them. Be independent, confident and positive - when you are friends with yourself, you will be better with your friends.