The quality of your relationships impacts the quality of your life. Having positive relationships benefits you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Being more intentional about your new relationships requires you to prioritize social events, maintain an open mind, know what you want, be vulnerable, and ask questions. By being intentional, you create the path for deeper connections.
Prioritize Social Events
One of the first steps to developing new relationships involves establishing common interests. You do this by attending social events that align with your values or hobbies. If you enjoy reading, consider joining a book club. If you like staying active, join a running club. If you value knowledge, attend a trivia night. Also, be consistent with the events you attend. Becoming a familiar face increases your chances of making new friends.
Remain Open
It is not always easy to put yourself out there, but it is necessary to make new friends. Stepping outside your comfort zone requires that you are courageous and open-minded. Not every social setting will be a good fit, and disappointment may occur. The key is to learn from the experience and explore new social settings. You want to remain open despite the outcome. Your tribe is out; it just might take time to find them.
Make A List
Before you can find what you are looking for, it is essential to know what you want. Identifying the values and qualities you need in a relationship helps you determine which people you are compatible with. Consider making a list of things you need and want in a relationship. Don’t forget to include dealbreakers as well. As you get to know new people, check to see if they have any qualities you value. Although liking a person is important, compatibility is the key to long-term relationships.
Be Authentic
People are attracted to authenticity. Being vulnerable is an essential part of showing up authentically. One way to do this is by expressing your feelings. If you had a stressful day at work, be willing to share that. If you reached a goal that you are proud of, share that too. You want to open up early to identify if there is emotional safety. When you feel safe, you become more comfortable with being yourself.
Ask Questions
Lastly, make sure to ask open-ended questions that help you gauge compatibility. These questions should reflect the qualities and values you seek in a meaningful connection. Pay attention to any answers that may conflict with your core beliefs and values. Avoid compromising who you are because you enjoy someone’s company. Instead, recognize that shared values are more important for long-term relationships. The right people will fit into your life and grow with you.
Final Thoughts
You might be at a place where you are ready to meet new people and build solid relationships. The key is to be intentional about new relationships. You can do this by prioritizing social events, maintaining an open mind, knowing what you want, being vulnerable, and asking questions. The connections you desire are out there, and by taking these steps, you create a space for meaningful relationships.