Did you know that there is an International Day of Friendship? Well, there is, and it is celebrated on July 30th. The United States celebrates the National Day of Friendship on the first Sunday in August (August 4th in 2024). Societies around the world have a special day to Celebrate Friendship! So, what is up with that?
Friendship is often talked about as a necessary part of living a healthy life. But what does friendship do for us?
Friends help to lessens stress because we have someone to cheer for us when we win and have our back when we face new and challenging situations. On the flip side, they provide a listening ear and advice when we are depressed or facing a challenge.
Friends can help you stick to your goals; like weight loss, taking up a new sport, learning a new dance, or buy that home you wanted for years.
Friends introduce you to new things and they get you to do things that are outside your comfort zone, like see a new movie that you wanted to pass on or getting outside to do something fun when you would really rather stay home to binge watch a series on TV.
Every friendship we have is different. Some friendships last a lifetime, while others last years and others only last a few months. You can have more than one group of friends depending on the things that you share together. The friends you go dancing with may be different than the ones from your book club and the ones you bicycle with.
If you want to make new friends but do not know where to start here are some ways that you can meet new people and develop friendships:
- If you want to make new friends but do not know where to start here are some ways that you can meet new people and develop friendships:Volunteer for a non-profit organization with a mission that is compatible with your beliefs.
- Walk your dog. If you don’t have a dog, offer to walk your neighbor’s dog.
- Join a book club – your local library can help you find one.
- Join a group that focuses on one of your hobbies or something that you want to learn more about.
- Attend services at your house of worship and join one of the groups there that interests you.
- Attend to activities in the park like concerts, art shows and festivals.
- Taking a class at the library or local college to learn a new skill like painting or woodworking.
- Connect with friends from your past through social media and school reunions.
- Invite an acquaintance to go for a walk or get together for coffee or drinks.
So, this year on Friendship Day, connect with a friend:
- Meet a friend for lunch or a drink.
- Go out and share an activity with a friend.
- Call a friend or send a card.