Creating the bonds that will last a lifetime

How much does it cost to be someone’s friend? Nothing, right? Of course, there are the easy friendships where you do not have to do much. You can simply enjoy being in each other’s company. You don’t have to have any big plans; you don’t have to make lots of conversation; it is a low-maintenance relationship. Those friendships are great. But even in a low-maintenance relationship, just a little effort will go a long way in creating a bond that will last a lifetime.

You don’t have to spend lots of money on gifts or plan elaborate surprise birthday parties. Simple acts of kindness that show how much of yourself you have invested in the friendship will increase its value exponentially. Here are some examples:

• Remember your friend on special days with a heartfelt card. (Hint: You can create your own with SendOutCards!) We have awesome cards you can send your friends for their birthdays, to recognize special milestones and achievements and … just because.
• Let your friend pick the movie. You aren’t a fan of suspense movies but your friend is? Now and then you can suffer through it!
• Pick up the phone. In this technological world of email and text message communication, sometimes a simple phone call can make all the difference in brightening someone’s day.
• Listen. It isn’t as easy as it sounds. Make the effort to really tune in, focus your thoughts and hear what your friend has to say.
  
• Only give advice when asked. It may be hard to bite your tongue when you just know what your friend should be doing in a given situation. But sometimes it is best to keep it to yourself.
• Apologize when needed. Too often friends take each other for granted. It is true that a good friend will probably overlook a curt answer or a bit of sarcasm, but the simple act of apologizing will show that you care about your friend’s feelings.
• Be patient. Sometimes even the closest of friends can be crabby or thoughtless. If a close friend has made you feel not so great, tell them how you feel and make the effort to work it out. Don’t let something little derail a long-term and positive relationship. Talk it over and find common ground. You’ll be glad you did.

Friendship is a treasure. Nurture it, and its value will increase! So why not send someone you care about a card through SendOutCards today?