Having friends may well keep you healthier and help you deal with stress better. Some studies show that people with close friends have a greater ability to fight disease than people who are alone.
Make friendship a priority(优先). Make full use of the time to be with friends even if it means letting the lawn go unmoved or the dishes unwashed for a while. When you can't get together, use the phone to keep in touch.
Open up to close friends. Maintaining a deep friendship requires a level of "heartfelt" intimacy(亲密). Don't be afraid to express your inner fears and disappointments. Listen to your friends when they have problems, but offer advice only when they want. Help raise friends' self-esteem when they are shaken by a job loss, or other such events.
Have different friends for different activities, such as going to the movies, singing in a choir, and joining a bowling league.
Don't wait for a friend to ask a favor. When a friend has a fever, go to the store or ask teachers for help.
Never take a friendship for granted. Like a good family, the friendship needs care and patience. Become a joiner. Find a group that matches your interests.
Talk to strangers. Conversations started in museums, dining rooms, or bookstores can lead to firm friendship.
Join a club or two. It is an ideal place to meet others with similar interests.
