#1 Rule of Successful Friendships

Dear Friend,

A confession: My brain is clogged with studies on men’s loneliness, friendship, suicide, social conditions, and news of the day.

You and I are starting to live a healthier more successful and eventually longer life because we are making friends. The studies have proven that for us. We have better heart health and are less obese than those who are lonely. Again, the studies prove that for us.

But, seriously…is that what makes you enjoy a friendship?

Yeah, it doesn’t spark commitment from me either. The stats and studies make me take friendship more seriously, but that’s not the same thing as creating and growing a good friendship.

Be Intentional

Really, it is that simple. All my best friendships require me to be intentional. Writing an email, picking up the phone, driving to see a friend, or making a “friend date” are the simple actions that come from being intentional.

The spark of liking someone need to be fanned intentionally to turn into a friendship. A good friend rises to the status of Best Friend by being intentional.

The Intentional Friend is the one who is in it for the long haul. There is more than interest, there is a discipline of action, even if it is spontaneous, to include others in their life.

Pick one friend to be intentional with this week.