For the last few years the topic of a loneliness epidemic has dominated much of chatter in interpersonal news. This conversation has focused on healthy friendships. In life, we often have to walk through the exploration of meeting a number of acquaintances in order to find true friendships. This growth mindset might even lead us to look inward and develop the qualities of a healthy friendship in ourselves.

Perhaps you have been thinking about making new friends? Perhaps you need to find better, healthy friends? Perhaps you need to be a better friend? Friendship with family and others is one of the most meaningful ways to spend your life. Vulnerability, honesty and loyalty are all features of a quality friend. Success in friend-making is partially determined by your discretion in knowing what NOT to do when making friends.

What could be more fun than intentionally planning time with family and friends. With the weather is turning cool and the need for some of your cozy clothes, use this inspiration of 10 ideas to create more space for for friendship.

Whether you are celebrating Thanksgiving with your family or not, this season invites room for an additional gathering fondly called Friendsgiving. While the name of this get-together might be relatively new, the idea of gathering with friends over a meal is thankfully not. To orchestrate your own Friendsgiving this year, just follow these seven simple steps.