Based on the traits that people value most in friendships - trust and honesty - Shasta Nelson, an author and leading expert in friendships, created the Frientimacy Triangle which depicts what makes a friend close:
Frientimacy Triangle (Nelson) [7]According to KrĂĽger, a psychotherapist, we only have three close friends and, unfortunately the number of friendships is decreasing the older we get. [8]
How to maintain friendships "Wenn ich mich um Freundschaften nicht kĂĽmmere, dann geht eine Freundschaft ein, wie eine Pflanze ohne Wasser und insofern muss ich einfach nur nichts tun, dann ist die Freundschaft vorbei." (W. KrĂĽger)
As consistency, vulnerability and positivity strengthen friendships, we could try to maintain our close friendships with help of these four maintenance behaviors:
- Be positive and share joy and happiness.
- Be supportive and actively listen.
- Be open, vulnerable and authentic.
- Take time for your friends to interact with them. [9]
With busy schedules it is sometimes fairly difficult to keep in touch with all your loved ones. To make sure that you still keep your friendships alive despite the hectic schedule. These few tips might help:
- Schedule weekly reminders on your phone to call close friends up.
- Make a text message group chat with friends from the same social circle.
- Reach out in times of crisis.
- Show up to the important events.
- Whenever you think about them, shoot them a text right away.
- Connect your network and plan big get-togethers. [1011]
"Friendships should energize you, so when time is tight, it's best to invest your time and energy in the relationships you know already enrich your life." (L. Vanderkamp)
