Friendship is a common topic in our classrooms, on the playground, and in our homes. From a young age, students are equipped with and taught the skills of sharing, taking turns, and playing cooperatively with others. As children grow and develop, educators and parents continue to support middle and high school students in pursuing friendships and relationships that foster a sense of belonging, connection, and shared interests. Educators are well-versed in the fact that friendships among their students are critical for well-being.
But when it comes to our experiences as adults,
many people share that as other factors have taken priority in their adult lives, friendships have been relegated to the “back seat.” During adulthood, as our career and family needs evolve, we may find ourselves with less time than before to enjoy time with friends. In some cases, physical distance may become a hurdle as we relocate for a new employment opportunity or to be closer to aging family members. As time goes on, we may discover that it’s been months or even years since we spoke to or saw a close companion. This can bring up feelings of sadness, loneliness, isolation, and even grief.
This month, as you consider your own friendships and social connections, we encourage you to take action, however small, to ensure these connections are alive and well. Friendships are significant relationships that can boost feelings of happiness and positivity, improve our self-confidence, provide us with a sense of purpose, and reduce our risk of health complications (Mayo Clinic, 2022)
Whether you are looking to spark a new friendship or rekindle a connection with an old friend, here are a few ideas to help you foster these priceless relationships:
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Review your phone’s contact list and send a message to a loved one you haven’t spoken to in a while. Let them know you are thinking of them and miss their presence. Sometimes a bid for connection can spark an invitation to dinner or a meet-up for coffee!
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For friends that are spread geographically far apart, consider a text or email group to keep each other updated. You could encourage others to share one update per week with a photo of their family or news about what they have been up to lately. This practice can help your group stay connected despite the miles between you.
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Challenge yourself to stay after school for the next staff potluck or party. Although it may be tempting to leave after the day is over, these opportunities lend themselves to seeing your colleagues in a new way. If you enjoy hosting gatherings, consider putting together a staff get-together of your own. Whether it’s dinner out, playing games together, or volunteering in your community, the activity matters less than the act of being with others.
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Tap into your interests! Many communities offer local book clubs at the public library, enrichment courses at the community college, or special events put on by the city council. You can invite a co-worker to attend with you or if you are a parent, consider asking another parent you know from the community.
Connection requires effort. The investment you make in scheduling time with friends, finding a babysitter, or reaching out to another person, is well worth the effort.
Sources Consulted:
Keystone Contacts:
Keystone is here to support you! If you would like help supporting your students' SEBH needs, please reach out to us.
Patricia Lehmann
Scotti Hagensick
Suzie Maas
