Frientimacy: How to Deepen Friendships for Lifelong Health and Happiness

It takes incredible courage to tell our friends they are right, they are loved, they are seen, they are good, they are safe, and they are strong. It takes courage because it can be scary to shine a spotlight on others if we feel something lacking in our own lives

demonstrate the courage to follow up after anything that was uncomfortable;

giving to ourselves so we’re not depleted, giving to others in ways that matter to the other and that don’t drain us, and giving to friendships by learning how to receive.

we follow through with an invitation after saying “we should get together sometime.”

What is clear is that this gap is a cultural problem.

Knowing myself: “How easy is it for me to own what I’m feeling? How often do I practice telling others my real feelings? How often do I ask for what I need?” • New activities: “Do I generate ideas of things to do? Do I extend additional invitations even if others don’t initiate as often as I do?” • Expanding conversation: “How often do I ask though

simultaneously initiating new activities, expanding conversations, shining in front of each other, and sharing shame and insecurity.

actively identify the areas that are good—and be honest about them.

NEEDS: Practice asking for what you need when you’re sharing a story: