Okay, you all, I had to go here even if we’re talking about friendships. I enjoy the love languages and the reasoning behind them. I hope Gary Chapman reads this blog post because he needs to add to the book series Love Languages for friends edition. You’ve heard it here first!
As an adult, friendships are more challenging. All the new demands on us, not allowing us to have the free time to do random things with and for our friends, put a damper on the fun we once had with our friends.
But don’t fret. I put together a great list of ideas on how to show your love and appreciate your friends based on their love language and how you can expect it to be received.
Friendship In The Now
While planning this blog post, I laughed at something I do with my friends to stay connected and keep the friendship going. I know many of us to spend a great deal of time on social media. And if you are anything like me, you love a good short, TikTok, reel, or funny voice-over animal video to keep your spirits up.
Funny thing, I did not realize what we were doing, but whenever we come across a funny meme, inspirational post, or mutual interest reel, we share it. Now for some, you may not see this as a significant gesture because it’s not. It’s a small deposit into each other, so we can think about each, consider each other, and for me (ADHDer), remember to get in touch with them.
We share funny things, encouraging posts, faith-based reels, and even pop culture drama, but the real blessing is that we are making an effort; we are sharing in a way that has evolved today. Because who likes getting phone calls anymore? Just kidding, but even though we are changing as a world, we can’t forget the old ways of connecting that was simple and made for deeper connections.
Quick shoutout…
Also, I want to shout out to my FB group posy at Women Seeking Confidence for helping me compile this list. They are my partners in this journey to uplift and encourage women like you.
I hope you love the list! But If you want to keep the list on hand, I made a printable you can download for free to hang it up, put it in your planner, save it on your phone, or read it at your leisure.
Simple Ways To Maintain Adult Friendships Based On Love Languages
Words Of Affirmation
- Let them know how much you care or how you appreciate them.
- When they cross your mind, reach out right away.
- Encourage them when they are having challenges
- Give them compliments on their appearance
- Send inspirational quotes and memes unique to your friend
Gifts
- Give small token, just because gifts that mean something to you two
- Print a picture of you two, frame it, and gift it. If you have kids, send those too.
- If your friend is embarking on a new journey, send a gift of something they will need.
- Shopping today? If you see something that reminds you of them, get it for them.
- Purchase friend jewelry between you two (necklace, bracelet, etc.). We are too grown for matching outfits.
Quality Time
- Dinner dates
- Attend an event/activity that your friend is a part of or putting on to support
- Concert dates
- Girl’s night in/spa day
- Set up a time to walk and talk (I prefer this over phone calls)
Acts of Service
- Help clean a part of their house
- Cook them something to eat and take it to them
- Watch their kids for them (well, if you like kids)
- Take reins on something they are overwhelmed with (set up a reservation, offer options or needed resources)
- Just ask how you can help or make their life a little easier. If you see a need, fill it.
Physical Touch
- Set up a friendship photoshoot
- Give your friend a hug every time you see them (if they are okay with it, of course)
- Allow them to lean on your shoulder when they’re down
- We often think about physical as actual movements but touch their heart, their spirit, their soul through genuine compliments and heartfelt words. Help your friend feel good in their body.
- High fives, fist bumps, secret handshakes ( you are not too old), the Yes Queen snap; whatever feels natural for you and within boundaries is fair game.
What would you add to this list based on your friends?
All in all,
Friendship is one of the greatest gifts God has given to us, and it’s only fitting that we do the work to keep them and cherish them. Whether you use the suggestions in this post or have inspired me to think of other options, I want you to show love to your friends 1% more than you did yesterday. I have not always been the perfect friend, but one thing my friends do know is that I love them, will go to war for them, and will show when they need me the most. Can your friends say the same for you?
Need support with navigating friendship as an adult?
You can also join the Women Seeking Confidence Facebook group for a community of women headed in the same direction as you in regards to growing in relationships:
Here are some other blog posts to support your journey as well:
5 Ways To Make Friends That You Have Been Avoiding
How the type of friends you have affects your confidence
Essential relationships that are more important than a romantic one
