Salamat, bes! 3 ways to show appreciation to your dependable friend

2020 came like a blur, and now it’s almost 2025!

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We've all been through a lot over the previous four years. Do you remember the pandemic and its consequences? One of the pandemic's consequences continues to affect some of us: our shared sense of social isolation. Social media helped us discover new activities and ways to connect with one another during a difficult time for everyone.

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Yes, we are nearly always connected thanks to our electronics and the internet, but it can be heavy and overwhelming at times. As difficult times come to our lives, the relationships and friendships we've formed along our journey help us go forward and cope. Sometimes just a few or one gets us through the day.

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When we have someone by our side through the good and bad times, life feels easier. Being around someone who is there for you, listens, helps, is quiet but comforting, and celebrates your wins and progress changes how you can show up in life. They inspire us to strive for excellence and embrace our true selves. A person who is kind, caring, trustworthy, honest, loyal, and supportive can really make a difference in your life. 

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As the holidays get closer, you may find it difficult to find the right words or even the right way to say thank you. Don't worry, we've got you! Here are 3 ways to show appreciation to that one-call-away friend, bestie, or your person:

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1. Gratitude messages. Writing about how your friend affects you and how they have influenced you can make them feel valued. This can also show them that you value what they do for you. You can send thank-you messages via chat or email; however, a handwritten letter may be more impactful. Just remember to speak from your heart.

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2. Thoughtful gifts. Giving gifts does not require you to spend a lot of money! You can be creative with these by crafting something for them. Gifts such as a scrapbook of your time together, organizing a care box, a bouquet of flowers, or purchasing a book for them can make them feel special while also demonstrating that you thought of them when making it.

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3. Spend quality time with them. The saying goes, "Life happens"—we get busy and forget to spend time with those who are important to us. Keep in mind that we must be intentional in all relationships, including friendships. Conversations online can be difficult and might cause misunderstandings, but spending time with a friend can make it easier to discuss your life and listen to them. This is also an excellent chance for you to pay it forward by being present and offering support to them.

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Researchers have found that having friends is good for your mental, physical, and social health. While there are a lot of people around us, not all of them are there to help us like our friends do. In order to strengthen your connections with those who are always there for you, it's important to show appreciation and take care of your bonds. 

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Reference:

• BetterHelp Editorial Team. (2024, April 24). The Importance Of Having Supportive Friendships | BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/relations/the-importance-of-having-supportive-friendships/ 
• Building Healthy Connections: Two Kinds of Relationships and How They Affect Your Life. (n.d.). https://www.empath.ph/blog/building-healthy-connections-two-kinds-of-relationships-and-how-they-affect-your-life 
• Cuncic, A., MA. (2024, September 27). 6 Benefits of Friendship and Why It's So Important to Stay Close. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-friendship-3024371
• SimplyNoted. (2021, October 29). 15 Best Ways to Say “Thank You for Being a Friend” | Journal. https://simplynoted.com/blogs/news/15-ways-thank-you-being-friend