How to Build Healthy and Lasting Social Relationships

Social relationships are one of the cornerstones of human life. They form the framework in which we experience belonging, support, and meaningful human connection. Success in life is not measured solely by personal achievements, but also by our ability to build healthy and balanced relationships with those around us. Successful relationships do not happen by chance; they are the result of awareness, mutual understanding, and human skills that are developed over time and experience. Professor Emmanuelle Awad, a university lecturer and psychology expert, explains more about this topic.

Building Healthy Social Relationships

Quality Over Quantity

Our social relationships should be based on quality, not quantity. The true value of any relationship lies not in how many people surround us, but in how deeply they impact our lives. The important factor is having people who provide safety, warmth, and genuine care—those who stand by us in both strong and weak moments.

Choosing relationships is much like choosing the path we walk on. Every person we allow into our lives leaves a mark on our thoughts, feelings, and perspective on life. By selecting individuals who share our values, respect our differences, and make us feel comfortable, we create a solid foundation for healthy, psychologically nourishing relationships.

Mutual Support

Healthy relationships are based on reciprocity. They are not just about taking; they are also about giving—whether through emotional support, attentive listening, understanding, or helping during difficult times. When we are genuinely supportive, we naturally attract others who can offer the same. Healthy relationships thrive on giving and receiving, not on one-sided exhaustion.

Emotional Sharing

A relationship goes beyond mere companionship. It involves sharing emotions and experiences, offering comfort in moments of vulnerability, and listening without judgment. Emotional intelligence and communication skills are essential to create a safe, nurturing environment where individuals feel accepted as they are.

Awareness and Intentionality

The more mindful we are in our choices and actions, the deeper and more genuine our relationships become. Relationships built on clarity and goodwill are less prone to unnecessary conflicts and more likely to endure. Awareness allows us to distinguish between those who are genuinely present in our lives and those who appear only out of convenience or self-interest.

Being a Suitable Partner in Relationships

The responsibility for healthy relationships does not rest solely on choosing the right people; it also requires us to be the right person for others. A strong relationship begins from within, with our ability to communicate effectively, respect others’ feelings, acknowledge mistakes, and commit to personal growth. By fostering mutual respect, safety, and support, relationships become a source of comfort rather than stress.

Emotional Awareness and Understanding

Emotional intelligence helps us understand ourselves first and then others, allowing us to handle situations with flexibility and wisdom. It is crucial to distinguish between reacting to someone’s harmful behavior and empathizing with their challenges or personal circumstances. Hasty judgments can destroy relationships that could otherwise be preserved through understanding and dialogue.

Respect and Boundaries

Professor Awad emphasizes that “respecting others’ boundaries is fundamental to successful relationships. Every individual has personal space, needs, and priorities. Respecting these boundaries creates relationships that are comfortable and balanced, integrating social and personal life without conflict or pressure.”

Realistic expectations and mutual understanding are key to sustaining any relationship. Constant meetings or communication are not necessary. Mature relationships are measured by respect and appreciation rather than frequency of contact. Even if people live far apart or are busy, the relationship can remain strong.

Accepting Change

Relationships evolve over time. Change does not necessarily mean loss. Often, it reflects personal growth, life stages, or shifting priorities. People enter and leave our lives for various reasons—some relationships may become less frequent but remain meaningful. True maturity is the ability to accept these changes without excessive grief or blame, understanding that life and relationships are naturally dynamic.

Conclusion

Healthy relationships are one of the most important sources of psychological and social balance in our lives. They reflect our awareness, maturity, and capacity to create safe spaces built on love, trust, and mutual respect.