~~The

The Magic
Magic of
of Friendship
Friendship~ ~
Having friendships in our lives is something many have struggled with as of late due to
the rise of technology and COVID-19, which have increased social isolation in the public,
particularly with young adults. This is detrimental as friendships have proved vital to
one’s health and happiness. For example, studies have found that having companions
can reduce the chances of getting cardiovascular disease and cancer while also reducing
stress and increasing overall life satisfaction. Moreover, friendships enrich life, creating
joy, laughter and love. It is nothing short of magic, and magic that everyone deserves to
experience in their lives. But for many of us, it can be difficult to find, as we don’t know
where to begin. Thankfully, with this guide in your hand, now you do!

Step 1: Put Yourself In A Social Setting

To make friends, first you must be surrounded by people:
Join a club in school or a volunteer organization.
Find social groups in the community that have people
that share your various interests meet regularly.
Find a new job or evaluate whether your current one
has any opportunities for regular socialization.

Step 2: Find People To Befriend

Notice if there are any friend groups or social
circles in your new social setting.
If you are partnered with somebody, or sit next to
them in class, try to seek out their friendship.
Avoid anyone who might display any problematic
behaviors (physical violence, abuse, control, etc).

Step 3: Start Conversations

Spark a conversation: It can be about anything.
If that’s difficult, try asking “How was your day?” and proceed
by sharing something about your day/weekend.
Ask questions, listen, and share things about yourself.
Make eye contact, smile and show genuine interest.
Seek out more conversations and interact regularly with them.

Step 4: Take Initiative

Invite friends to hang out with you during free time. Also, make
sure to also accept their invitations when they want to hang out.
Try exchanging phone numbers and contact information.
Try doing favors to convey your dependability and kindness.
Make sure your friend(s) reciprocates because if you’re the only
one putting in effort, then that friendship isn’t worth having.

Step 5: Open up
Don’t be afraid to do or say things in front of your friend.
Always present your most authentic self to them and respond with
empathy when they do the same.
When you’re at this stage, if you feel comfortable, confide in and vent
to them as well. This will show that you trust them and give you some
peace of mind.
If your friend sticks by your ups and downs, it means that they are
loyal and a true friend indeed.

Step 6: Keep it Going

Maintain regular communication, act as a confidant, open up and
invite your friend to hang out in free time with you.
These steps will help you have lasting friendships for years to come!
Always remember: if your loyalty and effort isn’t reciprocated, then
perhaps it’s time to let go of that friendship.
But also keep in mind that friendships are vital to living a full, happy
and healthy life. One 2010 study found that those who had friends in
their lives had a 50% higher chance of survival than those who did not.

Sources
www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/lifetime-
connections/201503/the-13-essential-traits-good-friends.
www.webmd.com/balance/features/how-to-make-new-friends
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-are-the-health-
benefits-of-friendship#The-effect-on-physical-health
www.webmd.com/balance/features/how-to-make-new-friends
https://youth.gov/youth-topics/teen-dating-
violence/characteristics