This archive report was first published on 27 July 2019.
On average, a person makes 396 friends in their lifetime, but only one in 12 friendships lasts. This statistic is even more striking when considering individuals who do not rely on social media to connect with others.
While social media platforms like Facebook have enabled us to connect with thousands of people, research suggests that the number of trusted friends has actually decreased by a third over the past 20 years. Furthermore, the proportion of people with no close confidants has doubled during the same period.
So, it's possible to feel lonely even when surrounded by others. What sets apart strangers from friends? Taking the initiative to reach out and be more than acquaintances is crucial. Being open-minded, non-judgmental, and genuine are also essential qualities for building meaningful relationships.
However, friendship is only valuable if we make an effort to stay in touch and support one another. As we approach International Friendship Day on July 30, let's strive to reconnect with old friends, form new connections, and prioritize nurturing our relationships.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Evewoman.co.ke.
