5 Ways to Show Appreciation for Your Friends
You see them several times per week, you don’t hesitate to call them when you’ve had a tough day, and you’ve probably considered naming one of your children after them. Even though we have an overwhelming sense of love and respect for our closest friends, sometimes we forget to show them just how much we appreciate them.
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Make them #1
Prioritizing your friends over other things helps to show them that their well-being is of utmost importance to you. There will always be competing priorities in life, and it can be difficult to manage them all. Making sure that you’re there for your friends when they need you, no matter what your other plans are is a great way of showing them how much they mean to you. Just think, if you had a friend who consistently abandoned you when you really needed them, how would it make you feel?
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Communicate!
This seems like the most obvious one, but it is often forgotten. It’s rare that we don’t check our phones while we’re out with friends for dinner or other activities. This can make your friends feel like you have other places you would rather be. Show your friends that you care about them and appreciate spending time with them by putting your phone away. This way, you’re able to commit all of your energy and attention to them.
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Believe in their goals
No matter how big or small, it’s always nice to know that your friends are supportive of your goals. If you’re announcing to your friends that you’re moving across the country, it’s great to have that feeling of unconditional support. It can be easy to give up as soon as your friend does, but instead, try to push them past their point of defeat. They’ll appreciate that they have someone in their life who believes in them when they have given up. Be the one who encourages your friends to live their lives to their full potential!
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Personalize gifts
When your friends’ birthdays roll around, don’t just resort to buying for the sake of buying. Put some thought into your gift to show your friend how much you appreciate them. It can be as simple as taking the day to spend time with them and do the things that they love.
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Be proactive
Making the first move will show them that you are an active friend who truly cares. Asking your friends if they need help with something when you know that they’re under stress will show them that you care to spend time with them, even if it means helping them move apartments.
Remember that above anything, a healthy friendship is all about balance! Ottawa Counselling Services is always here to help you find other ways to express your appreciation and help you lead a meaningful life.