Navigating Misunderstandings: Healthy Habits for Maintaining Friendships
Recently, a good friend of mine accused me of saying things about her that weren’t nice. I was taken aback and immediately responded, “I really don’t talk to people, so how could I have said things that weren’t nice?” Unfortunately, she didn’t explain herself or give me the chance to clarify, and we went no contact after that. It got me thinking about how to handle such situations healthily. Here are some habits I found helpful: First things first, it’s essential to stay calm and not let emotions take over. When someone abruptly cuts off contact, it can be incredibly hurtful and confusing, but maintaining your composure is crucial for your well-being. Next, take time for self-reflection. Consider if there was anything you might have said or done, even unintentionally, that could have been misinterpreted. Reflecting on your actions and words helps in understanding if there’s a pattern you might not be aware of. Another healthy habit is practicing self-compassion. It’s easy to get caught...