The list of benefits to having good friends in our life is endless. They'll help you move for the small price of a pizza. They'll tell you when there's broccoli in your teeth. They'll even blindly like all of your posts and videos.
And it turns out, that having strong friendships is actually good for your mental and physical health. Score!
1. Reduced Stress: Good friends provide emotional support, which can help reduce stress levels and promote better mental health.
2. Increased Happiness: Social connections and friendships contribute to a sense of belonging and happiness.
3. Improved Self-Esteem: Positive interactions with friends can boost self-confidence and self-worth.
4. Longer Life: Studies suggest that people with strong social ties tend to live longer than those who are more isolated.
5. Better Mental Health: Friendship can help ward off feelings of loneliness and depression, providing a buffer against mental health issues.
6. Encouragement for Healthier Habits: Friends often encourage each other to adopt healthier behaviors, such as exercising together or making better dietary choices.
7. Stronger Immune System: Social support has been linked to a stronger immune response, potentially aiding in quicker recovery from illness.
8. Improved Cognitive Function: Social interaction and engaging conversations with friends can stimulate cognitive function and memory.
So what are some ways we can show our appreciation to these people literally keeping us alive?
1. Say Thank You: Simply verbalizing your appreciation can go a long way. A heartfelt "thank you" can make your friends feel valued.
2. Personalized Notes: Write a note or a letter expressing your gratitude. Handwritten messages can feel more personal and meaningful.
3. Give Thoughtful Gifts: Small, thoughtful gifts that reflect their interests or your shared experiences can show you care.
4. Spend Quality Time Together: Make time for your friends, whether it's through a phone call, a visit, or planning an outing.
5. Offer Help and Support: Show up for them in times of need, whether it's helping with a task, providing a listening ear, or offering emotional support.
6. Celebrate Their Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments, big or small.
7. Remember Special Dates: Mark their birthdays, anniversaries, and other important dates, and make an effort to celebrate them.
8. Share Positive Feedback: Let them know how they've positively impacted your life. Sharing specific examples can be very meaningful.
9. Be There Consistently: Consistent presence and reliability show that you value the friendship and are committed to it.
10. Express Gratitude Publicly: Sometimes, expressing your appreciation in front of others, such as in a social media post or at a gathering, can make your friends feel special.
11. Do Something Special for Them: Plan a surprise or an activity that they enjoy. It could be as simple as cooking them a meal or organizing a fun day out.
12. Listen Actively: Show appreciation by being an attentive and empathetic listener when they talk.
13. Show Physical Affection: Depending on the comfort level of your friendship, a hug, a pat on the back, or any other appropriate physical gesture can convey your appreciation.
Go forth and friend well!
