Meaningful relationships are often hard to find. The reason is you do not find them. Meaningful relationships develop as you build connections with others. For people who are naturally outgoing this is intuitive. However, those who are more introverted connecting with others in a way that fosters a relationship may be more difficult to do. Everyone, even the social extrovert, can use a few tips on how to establish and maintain healthy, meaningful relationships.

First of all recognize the fact you need other people in your life. While you may be someone who can go days without having a conversation and you would just as soon stay home as go to a party, studies show those who have close friends around them live healthier, happier lives. What steps should you take to develop more friendships which have the potential to become meaningful relationships?

First, meet people with whom you are likely to have common interests. If you are a spiritual person, chances are there is a church, mosque, temple, or meditation group where others who are like-minded gather. If you enjoy motorcycles, join a club in your area where you can meet people with whom you would enjoy riding. Not only are you meeting people, you are staying active physically and mentally.

Once you are meeting people you would like to know better, don't just think about activities you would enjoy doing. Act on your thoughts. If you think about someone, take the time and call them. It may simply be to chat but if you have some free time invite them over or to go out for a drink or a meal. By connecting with people you discover commonalities around which relationships are built. You may discover you both enjoy a certain type of music. This will lead to more activities involving the music and possibly even more friends.

As you meet people and get to know them, take time to do things they deem special. This will take some effort on your part as you will have to pay attention to what your new friends like. It will however endear you to them and they will likely return the favor. Be open and honest, sharing as much of yourself as you feel comfortable. Good friends are usually extremely tolerant. They also want to know who you really are as they reveal more about themselves. Not only are you learning more about a new friend, you are becoming more comfortable with yourself as you reveal more.

Find things to laugh over as well as things to cry about together. Good friends share emotional bonds. Frequently someone you have been able to laugh and enjoy good times with will stick by you if the going gets rough. You can also do the same for them. Never pass up an opportunity to have fun with a friend. Also, never desert a friend during a time of trouble. These shared experiences become the glue cementing your friendship. The saying "Good friends are hard to find" is only true if you are unwilling to be a friend.