Modern lifestyles have created a distance in social relationships. Exhausting work commitments, countless personal responsibilities, and an over-ambition to succeed in a society laden with peer pressure are undoubtedly common reasons behind this trend.
But a healthy social circle is essential for mental well-being. Friends can help alleviate stress, provide emotional support, and enrich your life with comfort and joy.
Of course, making new friends is a constant struggle for adults with their hectic schedules. Youngsters, however, are making strides in expanding their network of friends online. According to Pew Research, 57% of teenagers have made new friends in cyberspace. This hardly comes as a surprise, considering how much time young people spend on the internet. But can these virtual friendships transform into real-life ones? Let’s explore.
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The Virtues of Virtual Friendships
For older generations that did not grow up with the internet, the thought of making friends with a stranger without meeting them in person could be disconcerting.
But turning to cyberspace to expand your social circle has certain undeniable advantages.
● It creates more opportunities to meet new people.
From social media and streaming sites to forums, communities, and online events, the internet provides a variety of ways to meet new people. It can connect you with a global community consisting of billions of users, increasing your chances of developing genuine friendships.
In the real world, achieving this is far more difficult unless you go out regularly. It could be a time-consuming process, which, even then, will not give you access to that many individuals. The internet, on the other hand, has no boundaries—you can connect with as many people as you like whenever time permits.
Building a connection with someone is easier when you have things in common. Communities, forums, and similar online platforms allow you to effortlessly find people based on common ground—from hobbies and personal interests to professional goals.
● It encourages improved communication.
Introverts are often uncomfortable approaching and conversing with strangers. For them, the internet could feel like a safer place to be themselves and make new connections.
For instance, the digital world makes it possible to interact with individuals living halfway across the planet without revealing too much about yourself until you are comfortable. You can also express your views and ideas without the fear of being judged, mocked, or criticized. If you are ever uncomfortable, you can easily remove yourself from those conversations.
Overall, you could feel far less vulnerable interacting online, making it easier to connect and build meaningful relationships.
Building True Connections: Transitioning Friendships From Cyberspace to the Real World
Nurturing fulfilling and lasting friendships is certainly possible in cyberspace, which, over time, you can transition offline. However, the dynamics of interactions are understandably different in the digital world than in the real one you live in. There are certain etiquette and rules you will need to follow to build relationships safely and effectively.
● Take your time
On the Internet, you can communicate from anywhere, at any time. This makes it possible to get to know potential friends faster. But taking your time is important, without rushing through the process.
Remember, the digital space could harbor scammers and imposters hiding behind fake identities. Separating them from genuine users will take some time and effort. Until then, avoid sharing too many personal details. Keep conversations to general topics, such as shared interests, preferences, and opinions.
● Give them space
Without facial reactions, body language, and other physical cues, it is not easy to gauge someone’s responses and thoughts on the Internet unless they articulate them. Being mindful of this is vital when nurturing cyber friendships.
Keep in mind that as much as you would have doubts, insecurities, and apprehensions, so will the other person. Therefore, be respectful when they express their opinions and views. Avoid being overly intrusive and asking too many personal questions. Focus on building trust instead. Let them open up and share more information in their own time.
● Verify their identity
To ensure your safety, you must confirm whether the person you are conversing with is who they say they are. Of course, this is easier to do when you are dealing with someone face-to-face.
So, how can you confirm the authenticity of an individual you have met online? Start by checking their online profile. Ensure their profile image is clear, and the description is not vague or misleading. Avoid accounts with a short history or fewer posts and activities.
If they have shared a contact number online, search it on PhoneHistory and check whether there are discrepancies between what you find and what they have shared with you already.
Watch out for scam red flags, including suspicious or secretive behavior. Personal questions, mood swings, and the use of offensive language are other warning signs you should take note of.
● Focus on what you have in common
Managing your expectations is imperative, whether you are nurturing friendships online or offline.
Bear in mind that no two people are identical in their views, opinions, interests, traits, and values. This means your new virtual friend might not align with all your likes and preferences a hundred percent. Instead of focusing on the differences, concentrate on what you have in common. This will help you appreciate and value the friendship more, laying the foundation for a lasting and fulfilling relationship.
● Keep loved ones informed
Always speak to your loved ones about your virtual friends.
When you are ready to take things offline, let your friends and family know about the meet-up. Keep them informed about where and when you plan to meet and what time you intend to return home.
To Wrap Up
Whether you are a working professional without sufficient time for social engagement, a retiree looking for ways to beat loneliness, or a youngster wanting to expand your interests, the internet provides plenty of opportunities to widen your social circle.
However, take your time to develop relationships and ensure you provide enough space for the other person without rushing through the process. Focus on what you have in common to appreciate them more.
Minding your safety is also important when you are dealing with strangers in cyberspace. Verify the authenticity of the person you are interacting with before you let down your guards, and keep your loved ones informed of your new virtual friend.
Remember, friendships require constant work. So, nurturing your relationships is essential even after transitioning them to the real world.
