LIFE

 

It's easy to get caught up in trying to impress your friends (especially if you're trying to nurture new friendships). It feels good to buy your friends nice things or tag along on adventures when you'd rather snuggle up with a book, but there are better ways to be a good friend. After all, quality time is the best way to bond with your loved ones! Check out these awesome alternatives and tips to stop impressing your friends.

Be genuine. 
How you make your friends feel is more important than how cool you are. Give genuine compliments, and make sure your friends know how much you value them. Don't agree with everyone else just to fit in. Share your opinions, and add your unique thoughts to a conversation. Nothing is more boring than hearing the same thing over and over, so let your voice be heard!

Don't overstretch yourself.
We're sure you've heard this one before: Money isn't the key to your friend's heart. Just because your gals planned out the ultimate concert experience doesn't mean you have to get an advance on your allowance. Unless you're interested in the activity going on, don't spend money just to fit in. Save it for another occassion you'll really enjoy, and let your friends know you appreciate the invite.

Stay true to yourself.
This is a recurring theme here at GL, and there's good reason for that. If you love your long hair, don't cut it because your gals think it'll look better. You know what you like, so don't let peer pressure convince you otherwise. After all, the last thing you want to do is make a last-minute decision you'll regret. Remember: Your friends should like you for you, not the you they want you to be.

Have fun.
Friendships are meant to be fun, and stressing about whether or not you'll say the right thing isn't a good time. Everyone is unique, so embrace your individuality! The only things you and your gals need to share are core values, so accept your friends as they are. If you feel like you don't fit in, talk it out. Friends care about you, and they'll make sure you feel included without making you uncomfortable.

Have you ever felt like you needed to impress your friends? Let us know how you dealt in the comments! 

by Julia Bonney | 5/25/2018