You can never complain about too many friends." Ultimately, friends enrich our lives, provide support during difficult times, promote happiness, and contribute to our overall well-being (there are even some real scientific reasons behind this).
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But have you ever found that making new friends is easier said than done? You may not realize it, but this may be because there are certain behaviors that can distance you from others.
So, if you're wondering "How can I be a better friend?" check out that you are free from these seven bad habits that can hinder your chances of making more friends in life.
Healthy friendships thrive on the basis of mutual give and take. This means being there and listening actively when your friend has a problem...
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There's a reason you should contact your friends, after all. Constantly directing conversations towards yourself, monopolizing discussions, and ignoring your friends' feelings can make them feel undervalued.
Especially if you expect them to be there when the hat falls (i.e., right away), without being willing to do the same in return. Honestly, this behavior is selfish and a bit rude. Instead, try being an active listener.
This important communication skill goes beyond just hearing. It's about attending, fully engaged, and actually paying attention to what your friend is saying. It's the perfect way to show that you care about someone and that you care about them more than just your own interests and your own affairs.
We all have this only friend... You're all at a party having a drink and watching things up when you suddenly realize he's gone. It is not in the pop bar, smoking area or bathroom.
He's simply gone! It seems that he disappeared into the air. Basically, he left without saying a word.
Effective communication is the lifeblood of any relationship. If you're too far away or fail to express your thoughts and feelings, your friends may feel disconnected from you and who you are.
By opening lines of communication, you can work to strengthen bonds, find common ground and build trust within your group of friends.
Perhaps you can only complain about others - to others. Perhaps you regularly engage in rumors and gossip. Or maybe you simply have a negative mindset!
In other words, you're not a very nice person to be around.
Whether it's a constant complaint or spreading rumors, all that negativity, poison and disparagement from others is exhausting.
Not to mention, it doesn't do you any good.
If this applies to you, it may be time to adjust the behavior of the half empty glass and to develop a positive mindset.
You are jealous and your friends know that too. Do you oppose that? So let me ask you this... And be honest now! When your friends do a good job, do you celebrate their successes? Or do you deep down carry some jealousy and resentment?
Maybe it's simpler than that, and you feel jealous when your other friends hang out with each other, not with you.
Either way, think about it... If you're jealous (unhappy) when your friends achieve something great, or you can't deal with sharing your "friend" with others, it could be a sign that friendship isn't as healthy as you initially thought.
Especially if the way you express jealousy is through criticism, belittling others and attacking with unkind words.
In fact, experts say that envy can poison friendship. Or, in the words of the seventeenth-century poet, John Drydden: "Jealousy is the jaundice of the soul.
We all make mistakes. There is nothing to be ashamed of, as long as you are willing to admit when you are wrong and deal with the consequences of your actions. By that I mean saying "I'm sorry" when needed.
If you've hurt your friend (intentionally or unintentionally), a sincere apology can go a long way in erasing the hurt. Not only that, but by taking responsibility for your actions, it boosts confidence and shows maturity. And if your friend is a true friend – he will understand, or at least hear you.
However, if you're unwilling to admit your mistakes or apologize when necessary, it can tear up the strongest friendships. Put yourself in the shoes of your friends. Ultimately, stubbornness, resentment, and rejection can create a toxic atmosphere that drives friends away.
So, the next time you wonder why no one invited you to Wendy birthday party or why Tony didn't answer your call, think about this list. It's never too late to change your behavior for the better.
