A life without friends is hard to imagine. Besides making our lives more enjoyable, they stand by us during difficult times and encourage us to keep moving forward. They offer us a shoulder to lean on when we feel low and celebrate our wins like their own. Life becomes easier and delightful when we have good friends to share it with.
Good friendships affect your life in more ways than one. Research shows that having friends is also good for your wellbeing. Numerous studies have shown that social support from friends can improve both your mental and physical health. A healthy social life can help increase your sense of belonging, boost your self-confidence, and discourage you to adopt unhealthy lifestyle habits.
It is possible that your friendships may change over time but true friends will always be there for you, ready to help you in times of need and bring happiness to your life. Let’s take a closer look at how your friendships can improve your wellbeing.
Boost your self-confidence
Sometimes the biggest deterrent that prevents you from achieving your goals is your own self-limiting beliefs. You think you are not good enough and doesn’t deserve happiness. But your true friends see what you cannot. They recognise your strengths and encourage you to pursue your dreams. When someone believes in your abilities, your self-confidence rises. According to a study, “positive social relationships, social support and social acceptance help shape the development of self-esteem in people over time.”
Promote a sense of belonging
We all have a natural yearning to connect and belong. Whether it is to join a peer group at college or be acknowledged by colleagues at work, when you are part of a social circle, you feel good. You know you have a group of people you can count on in times of need, which makes you feel secure. It reinforces your conviction that you are a good person, embedded with positive values. Moreover, spending time with friends can help keep loneliness at bay, which is important for your holistic wellbeing.
True friends recognize your strengths and believe in your abilities, which can increase your self-confidence.
It provides a feeling of security and reinforces positive values, enhancing your overall wellbeing.
Good friends offer guidance, support, and motivation to overcome obstacles and step out of your comfort zone.
Sharing your problems and concerns with friends can alleviate stress. Friends provide emotional support, lend a listening ear, and may even offer helpful solutions.
Spending time with friends who make healthy choices can inspire and motivate you to adopt similar behaviours.
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