Being more social with friends

Socialization helps fight against feelings of loneliness and improves mental well-being. As we get older, social circles tend to decline so it’s important to maintain our strong social support network of close friends and family. This starts by being social with friends.

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Here’s 4 easy steps to be social with friends:

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Start up a conversation

Reach out to a friend to see how they’re doing. This can be an old friend that you’ve lost touch with or a friend presently in your life. This can be as easy as asking how their day was or what their plans are this weekend. You can even let them know that you’re thinking about them. This can be done over a phone call, text, or even social media. 

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Share how you’re feeling

Let your friends know how you’re feeling. If you’re the type that writes down their mood or tracks their moods on a daily basis, try sharing how you’re feeling with them. It’s an easy way to open up and build a closer friendship. 

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Practice active listening

Once you’ve started the conversation with a friend, practice active listening. Active listening is where you make a conscious effort to hear not only the words they’re saying, but what they are trying to communicate. Repeating certain parts of the conversation will show that you’ve been listening. Just remember: your friends will already appreciate that you cared enough about them to see how they’re doing.

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Check in on them often

Don’t let this be a one time thing. Check in to see how your friends are doing on a regular basis. Just a simple check in is good enough. Do it when you’re emotionally available to support them if needed. It’s hard to know what they’re feeling and when they need support, so regularly sending them a message will increase your chances of being there when they need it most.

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