10 Tips to Encourage Flexible Thinking
Flexible thinking is not only essential for academic success but also plays a crucial role in building strong and healthy relationships, particularly with friends.
As we recently experienced the awe-inspiring spectacle of a solar eclipse, it serves as a timely metaphor for the journey of friendship. Much like the moon momentarily obscuring the sun, friendships go through phases of light and shadow, growth and retreat. Let’s embark on a journey through these phases, drawing parallels between the phases of the moon as it waxes and wanes (increases and decreases) and the dynamics of building true friendship connection.
At this stage, you and the other person are like strangers. You may have just met or have minimal interaction. There’s a sense of curiosity but also a lack of familiarity.
Just as the moon starts to wax, your interactions with the person increase. You engage in small talk and learn more about each other’s interests, hobbies, and backgrounds.
Like the moon reaching its first quarter, your connection with the person becomes more substantial. You find common ground, share experiences, and begin to develop a sense of trust and comfort with each other.
As the moon continues to wax, your friendship deepens. You spend more time together, share personal stories, and provide mutual support. There’s a sense of companionship and camaraderie developing.
At this stage, your friendship is at its peak, much like the full moon illuminating the night sky. You and the other person share a strong bond, complete trust, and genuine affection. You’re there for each other through thick and thin, celebrating joys and navigating challenges together.
Just as the moon starts to wane, your friendship continues, but perhaps with less intensity than before. You may not spend as much time together due to life’s demands, but the connection remains strong, and you still support each other when needed.
Like the moon in its last quarter, you and your friend may encounter obstacles or disagreements. However, your bond is resilient, and you work through these challenges, emerging even stronger on the other side.
As your friendship enters this phase, you take time to reflect on your shared experiences and cherish the memories you’ve created together. You continue to nurture the friendship, even if distance or other circumstances may temporarily weaken the connection.
Just as the moon begins its cycle anew, you and your friend have the opportunity to renew your bond and reconnect. Whether it’s through a heartfelt conversation, a shared activity, or simply reaching out after some time apart, you reaffirm the importance of your friendship and look forward to the journey ahead.
By comparing the phases of the moon to the stages of friendship, we can see how relationships evolve and grow over time, ultimately reaching a state of deep connection and mutual understanding.
If you have a child/teen/young adult with has difficulty making friends, contact us for a free trial at 978-764-2758 or schedule an intake https://calendly.com/simplysocialkids/let-s-connect
