I Followed Every Friendship Expert’s Advice for 6 Months. Here’s What Really Works.

I embarked on a six-month journey to follow every piece of advice from friendship experts. The goal was simple: to see what really works when it comes to making and maintaining friendships as an adult. Here’s what I learned.

First, **relaxation** is key. It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly hard to do. When you’re trying to make friends, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of being perfect or saying the right thing. But the truth is, people are more likely to be drawn to someone who is genuine and relaxed. So, I made a conscious effort to take a deep breath and be myself, even when it felt uncomfortable.

Another crucial piece of advice is **repetition**. Consistency is vital in building any relationship. Whether it’s meeting up with someone regularly or simply checking in with a friend through messages, repetition helps create a sense of familiarity and trust. I started attending weekly group activities and made sure to follow up with new acquaintances regularly.

**Disclosure** is also important, but it needs to be balanced. Sharing personal stories and feelings can help deepen connections, but it’s essential not to overshare. Finding that balance between openness and privacy is crucial. I learned to share enough to build trust without overwhelming others.

**Active listening** is another skill that proved invaluable. It’s not just about hearing words; it’s about understanding the emotions and intentions behind them. When you truly listen to someone, you validate their feelings and show that you care. This simple act can turn casual conversations into meaningful connections.

Lastly, **time and energy** are essential investments in any friendship. It’s not enough to just meet someone once; you need to make an effort to stay in touch and be there for them. Whether it’s attending important events or simply being available for a chat, showing that you value someone’s time and presence can strengthen a friendship significantly.

Over these six months, I’ve seen friendships blossom and grow stronger. It’s clear that following expert advice can make a real difference. The key is to be consistent, genuine, and willing to put in the effort to nurture these relationships. By doing so, you can build friendships that are not only enjoyable but also supportive and lasting.