Making friends and finding meaningful relationships can be tough. Things have changed a lot since our parents or grandparents met. Today, we connect with people in so many different ways that we almost have too many options for meeting and making meaningful connections.

We may find potential friends or partners through other friendship groups, professional environments such as work as well as through social media platforms and dating apps. Apps such Tinder, eHarmony, Grindr and Hinge also make it a little harder to find that suitable connection. Not to mention how safe we need to be whilst online.

With all these different options at hand, it can be difficult to communicate effectively. We will always communicate differently with people face to face as to what we do via online. Then when we finally meet someone, what next? How can we be intimate and how do we understand other people's boundaries whilst also fulfilling our own needs? Who can help us understand relationships?

Like any human connectivity, we must always be mindful of our safety and vulnerability but also give ourselves the opportunity to experience new and exciting emotions. Humans have an inherent desire to be close to other people, to connect and to experience healthy and meaningful relationships.

People in healthy relationships tend to:

•          Listen to each other

•          Trust and respect each other

•          Solve Problems together

•          Engage in healthy activities together

•          Consistently make time for each other

•          Remember details about each other’s lives

•          Communicate openly and without judgment

Everyone is unique and has their own needs and desires when it comes to a relationship. If you’re the type of person who enjoys being alone, that’s okay too, it's important to remember that a few close relationships and friends can be immensely beneficial to your mental health. Sometimes having at least one good friend to help you work through issues like anxiety or depression can end up being exactly what the doctor ordered! Research even suggests that having healthy social relationships has a big impact on our physical health, helping us to live longer. Remember, you are not alone and there is someone out there for everyone, you just haven't met yet!

Even though meeting new people can be difficult, it might also be exactly what you need. A smile, a wave or a friendly hello is sometimes all it takes.

If you're looking to learn more about how to build meaning relationships visit Birds and Bees or Relationships Australia