Genuine friendship is a treasure that far exceeds any wealth the world may hold. It takes work and dedication, like a garden, to cultivate a relationship and make it last. You’re supportive and try to reassure each other, especially during difficult situations.
Eighteen Things to Say to Be More Supportive and Have a Stronger Friendship
As in any relationship, your friends are with you to weather the best and worst of times. How can you boost your buddy’s spirits when they are down or in a dark place? Here are 18 things you could say to reassure them of how much you care.
1. “I Believe in You.”
One of the most supportive statements you can offer a friend is to tell them how much you believe in them. You reassure them when they are at their lowest point and doubt their strengths and abilities. Love and acceptance are basic human needs, and you can offer these to your friend.
2. “I Can’t Stop the Storm, but I Can be Your Umbrella.”
When family or friends experience loss or other adversity, well-meaning people often say the wrong things. You can’t promise them they needn’t worry because everything will be fine. However, you can be supportive and reassure them that you’ll be at their side.
3. “I Love and Accept You Just as You Are.”
Best pals see each other for who they are and love them anyway. By loving and accepting them, you build their self-worth. They don’t have to look or be like anyone else for them to hold a special place in your heart.
4. “Your Past Mistakes Don’t Define You.”
Is it difficult for you to see your friend chronically kicking themselves for past mistakes? Often, it’s easier for folks to forgive others than to forgive themselves. Be supportive and encourage your friend to show themselves more forgiveness and compassion.
5. “You’re More Than Enough.”
The next time your friend feels down and less than, be the sunlight that brightens their day. Tell them that they’re more than enough and more incredible than what they can ever imagine. Please pay them a sincere compliment and boost their mood.
6. “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay Sometimes.”
Of course, you want to be supportive of your best buddy with words of encouragement. You may be quick to say, “be strong” or “you’re going to be okay.” But everyone has a right to grieve, feel vulnerable, and unsure.
They shouldn’t feel guilty if they need some time to fall to pieces and not be okay. Encourage them with your love and support, and your presence is a gift when you’re there for them.
7. “I’ve Always Admired Your Strength.”
Have there been times in your relationship that your best friend has been your anchor? Tell them how much that means and their strength inspires you. There will be plenty of opportunities for you to lift their spirits too.
8. “Please Let Me Help You.”
Many people feel that it’s a sign of weakness to ask others for help. It shows great strength and courage to swallow your pride and let someone lend a hand. Your best friend may be struggling with a problematic situation, and they feel embarrassed to ask you to intervene.
You can be sensitive to their feelings while still offering your assistance. They may feel relieved that someone cared enough to ask. You can also provide something more specific like taking them somewhere special, or you can help by babysitting their kids for a day.
9. “I’m Not Your Judge or Jury.”
It’s only human to reach out to a hurting friend and try to fix things. If you get into this mindset, you may become their adviser rather than their supportive friend. Even when they’re asking you what to do, they want you to confirm the decision they’ve already made.
Avoid judgmental statements and tell them what you would do if you were them. If their thinking is awry, let them come to that conclusion themselves. It’s refreshing and reassuring when you lend an empathetic ear without condemnation.
10. “Those Toxic People Don’t Deserve Your Time.”
Sometimes, your best friend may be in a toxic relationship, or they may have just experienced a breakup. They’re shattered, and they may feel that the broken relationship was somehow their fault. You must reassure them of your friendship and make sure you let them know that you’re on their side.
You can tell your friend they deserve better without indulging in name-calling and insulting the other parties. If a person doesn’t want to treat them with love and respect, they miss out. Let them know how much you value and appreciate your friendship.
11. “Take all the Time You Need.”
Patience is not a virtue that naturally comes to humans. The only way to learn how to be patient is to go through adversity. When you use your painful experiences and tools, you are more patient with yourself and others.
Time and patience are also beautiful gifts in a friendly relationship. Allow them time to make crucial decisions or to heal. They will appreciate your kindness and lack of pushiness.
12. “Being Your Friend Makes Me a Better Person.”
The beauty of companionship is that you bring out the best in each other. How has your pal been an inspiration and positive influence for you? Tell them what a blessing they are to you, and make sure you let them know that they make you a better person.
13. “I’m Sorry; please Forgive Me.”
According to an article by UCLA-Berkeley, forgiveness may boost your relationship satisfaction. People will have shortcomings and hurt even the ones they love the most. While offending others may be inevitable, it doesn’t mean that these offenses must linger without apology.
It takes a big person to admit they’ve done wrong and ask for forgiveness. If you’ve hurt your friend, even unknowingly, be quick to ask them to forgive you. Then, try to be supportive of your friendship by making amends.
Take note of what you did wrong, so you can try to avoid the mistake in the future. Make sure you validate their feelings, even if you disagree with what they’re saying. Whether or not you intended the offense, your actions caused pain.
14. “I Accept Your Apology and Forgive You.”
What if your friend has done something to hurt you? If your friendship is genuine, they won’t rest until they’ve made it right. The essential thing to remember is not to allow bitterness to darken your spirits.
Holding a grudge can affect your entire well-being, says an article published by the Mayo Clinic. You can become anxious and depressed and can’t enjoy the present because you are stuck in the past. According to the article, learning to forgive may lower stress levels and improve mental health.
Your pal will be supportive and empathetic of your feelings. You can’t forget the transgression, but forgiveness allows you to leave it in the past. When they apologize, forgiving is more meaningful than harbor bad feelings.
15. “Have You Considered This Perspective?”
You can always count on a genuine friend to tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. They’ll give you an honest opinion out of love even if the truth hurts a bit. You’ll do the same for them and help them explore other perspectives when they need solutions.
16. “Your Smile Makes Me Happy.”
What are some of the things about your companion that make you crave their company? Maybe when you’re having a bad day, all it takes is their smile to cheer you. It could be their infectious laughter or what brilliant conversationalists they are.
17. “I’ve Always Trusted Your Opinion.”
A solid friendship strikes a healthy balance of give and take. You both stand in the gap for each other. When you help someone and sense their gratitude, you may feel just as wonderful as they do.
Remember when your pal was your rock in a time of crisis? They have your best interest at heart and wouldn’t steer you wrong. They’ve had a lot of experience, and you value their opinion.
18. “You Deserve the Best in Life.”
It’s also important to be supportive during joyous occasions. Be genuinely happy for your friend’s success and other blessings. Stand with them on the mountain tops; you must be part of the joy they deserve.
Final Thoughts on Things to Say to be a More Supportive Friend
Weave the fabric of friendship with wefts of love and warps of strength. Honest communication is essential to keep your relationship happy and healthy. Knowing what, when, and how to say something meaningful to them can make all the difference.
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