Building strong connections with male friends can be similar to building connections with any other friend, but there may be some gender-specific considerations to keep in mind. That is why there are tips to build strong connections with your male friends.
It is also the same as what the younger generation calls “bromance”. Think Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart, or Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. Such relationships are more than just the usual banter and bonding over beer.
How to Build Strong Connections With Your Male Friends
Want to widen your social circle? Just do it! You don’t need to collect friends. As long as you have a handful of close ones whom you trust and confide in are enough to have quality connections with your male friends.
Here are ways to build strong connections with your male friends:
Make time for shared activities
Spending time together doing things you both enjoy can help strengthen your bond. This could include playing sports, going to the gym, playing video games, or attending concerts or other events.
Be a friend they can rely on
Be a dependable friend by following through on commitments and being there for them when they need support.
When your friend shares something with you, actively listen to what they are saying and engage with them. Show interest in their life, and ask follow-up questions to demonstrate that you care.
Respect boundaries
Respect your friend’s boundaries and comfort level with physical touch or emotional sharing. Everyone has different comfort levels, and it’s important to be mindful of this.
Be open and honest
Communication is key in any relationship, and being open and honest with your male friends can help you build a stronger connection. Share your thoughts and feelings with them, and encourage them to do the same.
Showing vulnerability can help deepen your connection with your male friends. It can be challenging for some men to open up emotionally, so by leading by example, you can help create a safe space for them to share their feelings.
Celebrate their successes
Celebrate your friend’s achievements and show your support for their goals and aspirations. Remember that everyone has a timeline. Your friends’ moment may have arrived earlier, but yours will come too eventually!
Why You Should Build Strong Connections With Your Male Friends
Humans are social beings. At some point, we will need someone to trust and confide in when hardships come our way. However, it seems that close bonds among males are not as common as those with their female counterparts.
According to Dr. Tim Sharp, founder and “Chief Happiness Officer” of The Happiness Institute, being emotional and talking about feelings is considered a “girl thing”. Having male friendships can help “improve their lives in almost every area” and “feel connected and add to our sense of belonging, which counteracts feelings of loneliness and isolation”.
Remember, building strong connections with your male friends takes time and effort, but by being a supportive and dependable friend, you can cultivate meaningful and lasting relationships.
