On evolving friendships, and genuine connections

Genuine connections thrive on the messy, unfiltered aspects of human interaction—the stuff you can’t capture in a Whatsapp text or an Instagram post.

In our crazy fast-paced world today, I can’t help but notice a shift in the way we connect with each other. It’s like genuine connections are slowly slipping away, and technology seems to be playing a big part in it. Sure, we’re more connected than ever, but it often feels like we’re losing so many real things in the process.

And don’t even get me started on the whole quantity-over-quality thing. In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with notifications and racing against the clock, measuring emotions with metrics, meaningful connections often end up taking a backseat. We’re so busy crafting our one sided perfect personas that we forget the richness that comes from truly connecting with someone on a deeper level and richness in friendship is multi-dimensional.

I have often forgiven that busy friend who genuinely forgets to reply my message, or that person who holds on to “being busy forever.” We’re all caught up in this whirlwind, trying to keep up with the fast pace of the world, and in doing so, the two way street of friendship can get lost in the chaos.

Yet, amidst this hustle, there’s an undeniable craving for something more, something real. It’s this yearning for connections that go beyond the surface, that dive into the messy, imperfect, yet beautifully human aspects of who we are. The kind of connections that not only withstand the test of time but also evolve, grow, and deepen over the years.

Being present in each other’s lives is a great way to make close connections. There’s a certain charm in being present—radiantly present. It’s about more than just showing up physically; it’s about being there with your whole self, mind, and heart. In a world where attention spans are fleeting, the ability to be fully present in a conversation, to truly listen and engage, becomes a rare and invaluable gift.

Being dependable and keeping your commitments consistently builds trust and reliability in a friendship. Imagine it as a pact, an unspoken agreement to honor commitments and uphold the reliability that forms the backbone of a strong friendship. When you say you’ll be there, showing up becomes more than a mere physical presence—it becomes a testament to your dedication and the value you place on the bond you share.

Embracing and respecting the uniqueness of each individual can enhance friendships and provide new perspectives. Picture it as a mosaic, where every individual piece, with its own color and texture, contributes to the overall masterpiece of the friendship. This inclusivity allows for a harmonious blend of backgrounds, thoughts, and ideas, creating a more resilient and adaptable connection.

Identifying and cultivating shared values, common beliefs, and interests can strengthen the foundation of friendships. Imagine shared values as the compass guiding both individuals on a similar path, providing a sense of direction amid life’s twists and turns. These commonalities go beyond mere surface-level interests; they reflect the core principles that shape your worldview and influence your decision-making. When friends share values, there’s a natural harmony in the way they approach challenges, celebrate successes, and support each other during times of need.

So as friendships evolve, and quantities do not justify the quality, lets remember that being out there, genuinely building lasting friendship, is an intentional act. It involves cultivating empathy—the ability to truly see and feel the emotions of others. It means celebrating their triumphs, offering solace in times of sorrow, and sharing the intricacies of our own stories. In these shared moments, bonds are strengthened, and a sense of unity emerges, fostering connections that are not easily shaken by the winds of change.

Some books that I loved on this topic