So what's our friendship status?
Hey frans!! Audra here. Hope you're great. The germ of this episode was a rant Francesca & I had one day... Can we all just agree that there are some relationships/ friendships that require too much of our energy?
As we get older, it becomes harder to cultivate new friendships as well as nurture the friendships we DO have. In this episode we chat about tips to keep your tribe strong and continue to welcome new pals in different seasons of our lives!
“What if we started thinking about & analyzing friendships the way we think about romantic relationships?
BUT FIRST - let's talk about you.
Turn it inward, gf! Do yourself and all your present/future friends a favor and take a second to think about what you need in the season of life you're in right now. You'd do the same thing if you were analyzing a romantic relationship - so try doing it with friendships, too!
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF
What do I want in a friend?
What kind of friend do I want to be?
What kind of connection am I looking for? 24/7 or every once in a while to reconnect
Am I an introvert looking to find 1-2 key peeps. OR am I an extrovert & need a whole posse?
Now that you've done the work and know what you're looking for in a friend, let's get down to business.
OK, BUT LIKE HOW DO I MAKE ACTUAL FRIENDS?
TIPS FOR MAKING NEW FRIENDS
Ask Questions! When meeting new people, ask questions that specifically relate to the other person. Everyone loves to talk about themselves
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou
Compliment + Gratitude! It's not flattery if it's real. Follow up with a text after meeting someone new. If you really liked them, tell them. Send a card, write a love note, tell them why you think they’re awesome
"You can never say thank you enough" - Leslie Knope
Communicate, communicate, communicate! In every type of successful relationship, setting expectations with the other person and sharing what you need is key. Here's some tips!
COMMUNICATION
TIPS FOR STRENGTHENING EXISTING RELATIONSHIPS
Use "I need" & "I feel" like it's your job
Avoid using the words “never” and “always” in fights. Because, duh
Avoid resolving serious conflicts over text or email. Be brave! In-person is always best.
“Please keep inviting me” is an underused phrase. You're busy but you want to stay connected? This is your new go-to!
Do us a favor, don't be on your phone while you're spending time with friends. Mmmkay. Thanks.
Our favorite way to hit pause on a conversation/stop the late-night friend gabbing... say Goodnight :)
" The answer is always grace" - Rob Bell
One final thought. Show Up. You may not know what to say, but keep showing up
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