Humans need other humans—it’s just the way we’re wired. Our lives are richer, and a lot more fun, when we establish meaningful connections with others. Not to mention, having good relationships does wonders for your health and wellbeing (read up on the research behind strong relationships and strong health).  

Whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert, I encourage you to seek out positive, inspiring people to link arms with. Find the ones who support you, motivate you, and help you become a better person, daily (and don’t forget to do all of that for them, too!). Here are a few simple tips to help you create and maintain meaningful connections in your life. 

Be authentic.  

With social media being such a prominent part of our lives, we’ve grown accustomed to the idea that we need to put a filter on everything—literally and figuratively. But by trying to prove to others that we live these “perfect” lives, we’re burying the fact that we’re human. We don’t always get it right. And if we’re being completely honest, we’re oh-so messy.  

My advice: Embrace the “messy.” Let people know who you really are, not just who you pretend to be. You’ll attract the ones you need in your life when you create relationships that are built on authenticity. (Check out this post for tips on embracing who you truly are!) 

Find your people. 

The cool thing about creating your inner circle is the fact that you get to choose the kind of energy you’re surrounded by. 

Will you build relationships with people who are constantly complaining about everything, or will you decide that it’s more important to have positivity around you? Are you hanging out with those who haven’t accomplished much in life, or are you intentionally seeking out the most inspiring, successful people you know? Here are a few characteristics of the people worth spending your time with: 

• Honest and kind 
• Constantly looking for ways to celebrate and support others 
• Motivated to achieve goals 
• Good listening skills 
• Optimistic 

Maybe the problem isn’t so much that you can’t seem to find the right people, but that you don’t have the confidence to initiate connections. If this sounds like you, read this post to learn how to get out of your shell and be more social. 

Water those relationships. 

Relationships of any kind are a lot like plants … they need regular attention. In order to thrive, they should be watered with regular check-ins, genuine conversations, and reminders of gratitude.  

Life is busy—so busy, in fact, that we often put our relationships on the back burner. The ol’ “let’s meet up for coffee soon” never actually leads to a set date on the calendar. We forget to call, we go months without texting, and soon enough, those connections we worked to establish are dissolved. Don’t let this happen to you! Read this article for tips on how to maintain friends and relationships, no matter what’s happening in your life. 

Good news: There are roughly 7.753 billion people in the world. That means you have so many opportunities to meet and connect with others every day. So, get out there and build those relationships! Creating lifelong connections is more than worth it. 💗 

If you want to attract good people in your life, you have to be a good person, yourself! Read my post to learn how to create a personal development routine.