#adulting: 5 Peer Management Tips for Better Relationships
Growing up doesn’t feel easy. In the midst of #adulting, we realise we have opinions and preferences that we do want to express and be heard. These may require us to find ways to get along with others, including our peers, such that we can manoeuvre through this world with the support of people we value, while not becoming people pleasers.
Managing others especially our peers is an art. It’s tricky because these may be people we have grown up with, and hung out together before. Bonds have been built and suddenly it seems like things are ‘different’, which can be off putting.
To navigate this, we must first begin with knowing yourself. Being confident in who you are goes a long way when conflict/ tension arises. Here are some quick tips on how you can build confidence.
Part of the result of knowing ourselves is to create that safe space for us to be who we are truly. When peer influence arises, we can then determine if it’s positive and can enable us to become better persons or if we need to draw boundaries and resist the peer pressure.
It’s also important to remember that while you are practising how to manage yourself and your peers, they too are going through the same thing. Find support who will extend reciprocity where safe space is created for one another. There is power in shared experiences and communicating through challenges.
At the end of the day, it’s a 2 way street. Relationships between peers can be tricky especially when both are transitioning through change into adulthood. Managed well, the friendship can strengthen and grow otherwise, it may be time for a graceful end!
