Where does friendship bloom?

A friendship develops over time; what that timeline looks like is something that cannot be defined.  For some, they form a friendship with someone in a matter of minutes, and for others, it could take them months or years for their friendship to fully bloom.  Some of this is dependent on the different types of personality styles out there; some people are more introverted and inclined to be more socially reserved, and others are extroverted, where they are more socially engaging. 

Another factor to consider is the quality of time you spend with someone and what is happening.  Quality time spent with a friend can impact how the friendship blooms.  For instance, if you spend time with a friend having a surface-level conversation, then the depth of that relationship blooming is minimal.  If you are having that quality time with your friend, building deep emotional connections, then the friendship will blossom into something much more meaningful.

Adverse life events can impact the development of friendships as well.  We would want hardships to happen to us, in a general sense, but the reality is that hardships are a natural part of life.  Having a friend there to help you through hardship and vice versa is one of how a friendship blooms.  These events help us build a sense of trust with your friend and your loyalties with one another develop. 

Having similar values can impact the development of friendships; that is why it is helpful to meet people in settings that emulate what is important and meaningful to you.  For example, if physical activity and health are important to you, you may choose to meet friends through community sports activities.  Or, if you are someone that believes humanitarian activities are important, you may meet your friends through volunteering. 

These are things to consider when evaluating the network of friends you have and determining if you feel the connection is lacking.  Take a moment to reflect on the differences between you and that person; are these the types of differences that complement one another or make it more challenging to maintain that connection?