How to Create Social Support in Your Life

Relationships that are mutually beneficial and nurturing might help you feel happier and healthier.Having a group of friends who have your back, or even just one person who cares about you, may do wonders for your emotional well-being.

Here are some fundamental abilities that can aid in developing connections that are mutually beneficial.

Meet New People

Building a strong social network takes time and effort, but it may have a profound effect on how you deal with daily challenges. The more individuals there are in your life, the higher the probability that you will develop meaningful, mutually supportive bonds with some of them. It's helpful to be able to expand your social network on a consistent basis.

Make the Time

It can be challenging to find the time needed to keep up with friends and make new ones. There will always be time for friends and family, no matter how full your calendar may be. The trick is to master the art of time management.

Be Assertive

Common conceptions of assertiveness include "standing up for yourself" and "not letting people push you around" as its defining characteristics. While this is true to a large extent, the opposite of aggression is assertiveness. The key difference is that assertive people don't feel they have to prioritize their own demands over those of others.

Mastering the art of assertiveness is a surefire way to improve your social life by fostering more mutually beneficial, long-lasting, and open connections with others.

Listen

When you've had a rough day, sometimes all you need is to be able to unload on a good friend. When we finally feel heard and understood, it can change us in significant ways.

Keep in mind that your pals may use some of your help, too. Some things to keep in mind the next time you and a friend are venting about your respective stresses and upsets

Trust Your Intuition

Take note of how you feel when you're in the company of specific folks. If you're feeling friendly and at ease around this person, trust that your gut says they're good to be around.

The converse is true if you leave an interaction with a person feeling nervous, tired, or like something is wrong but you can't put your finger on it.

Let Go

Unfortunately, not everyone is a good fit. It's fine to put off or let go of a relationship if you find that you and the other person just don't click. Sometimes, no matter how long you've known someone, you just can't help but drift apart. Nothing 'wrong' with any of you is implied by it.

However, if you have someone in your life who constantly puts you down, it may be time to cut ties. It's also fine to keep them on the periphery of your life if you'd like to. Keep in mind, though, that you shouldn't rely on them for help.