We can connect as individuals. There are many reasons why people can connect. Some of these include love, trust, honesty, and blood.
A connection can be formed through these factors, leading to a romance or a friendship. Both of these bonds bring worth to our lives.
Some people mix up their relationships and friendships due to their similarities. Good relationships and friendships can be reinforced by their experiences together, making people more vulnerable.
This article explores relationships and friendships.
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What Is a Relationship?
A relationship is a type of connection that develops when two people who are both sexually and romantically interested in each other establish a mutual admiration and admiration for one another.
This type of relationship usually lasts for a long time. Although there are no set rules that people should follow in a relationship, there are several things couples should do to make their relationship work.
Both partners must first determine if they are exclusive when forming a relationship.
They also have to decide if they are seeking more or just casual. In a partnership, the partners are expected to maintain the connection.
What Is a Friendship?
A friendship is a relationship that allows people to feel comfortable asking for help and expressing their feelings. It also allows them to communicate both positive and negative news.
This type of relationship is not forced and is based on the principles of caring, honesty, and sincerity.
Although relationships are a significant part of one’s life, many people do not consider them a requirement for a romantic partner.
Without friends, one’s life would not be complete. However, it is essential to note that the level of commitment one has to one’s friends can vary. Some people may be more invested in their relationships than others.
Relationship vs Friendship
Here are the distinctions between relationship and friendship.
1. Legal Aspect of Friendship and Relationship
A relationship’s legal aspects exist in disagreements between family members, business parties, and marriage.
If there is a disagreement, one can seek legal help to resolve the issue while at the same time ensuring that the law enforces the values of the relationship.
This is why various types of written documents relate to relationships, such as marriage, business partnerships, and employee unions.
Unlike relationships, a friendship is not bound by legal considerations. This means that one cannot challenge mutual consideration if there is a disagreement.
This is why people need to understand that they can’t challenge the decision of their friends.
2. Openness in Friendship and Relationship
People’s level of openness about their feelings and emotions varies depending on the type of relationship they are in.
For instance, in a friendship, people’s level of transparency about their feelings and emotions about certain aspects of the relationship is higher than in a relationship.
There are various types of relationships where people can share their feelings and emotions with a high level of openness.
Most people will likely tell their friends about their thoughts on the organization and their feelings about its leadership.
However, it is not always possible for employees to express their opinions on the company’s direction.
3. Terms of Existence
Unlike relationships, friendships are fully formed and governed by the terms of their existence.
For instance, in a friendship, people’s trustworthiness is higher than in a relationship. However, they can relinquish their friendship tag if one is not trustworthy.
It is possible to find siblings who don’t talk to each other but whose relationship is still bound by blood.
Read Also: Dating vs. Relationships: 15 Differences You Must Know About
4. Forms of Existence in Friendship and Relationship
One of the main differences between a relationship and a friendship is the type of relationship that it is founded in. A relationship is based on two types: the deliberate and the natural.
Some individuals are related to natural forms, such as family members. Another type of relationship is a conscious form, which can include marriage or a colleague.
Unlike a relationship, a friendship is not based on the natural aspects of the relationship. Instead, it is based on the deliberate form.
5. Win-Lose/Lose-Win/Win-Win
The goal-oriented nature of a relationship is usually the main reason people form it. Most relationships, people sacrifice one’s individual goals to help their partners achieve theirs.
In a relationship, one person has to sacrifice their highest interests to benefit the other.
In friendships, the parties work together to ensure that the other person is well-equipped and comfortable with the benefits of the union.
This type of relationship creates a win-win situation since the parties share equal benefits and powers.
6. Termination
One of the main differences between a friendship and a relationship is the termination process. In a relationship, the parties involved must work together to maintain the relationship.
In a friendship, the parties are not expected to follow legal procedures to terminate the relationship.
Some forms of relationships can be legally ended. For instance, if one is in a relationship with a sibling, one cannot end it. However, other relationships can be lawfully terminated through legal procedures.
Read Also: How to Know When to Leave a Relationship
Final Thought
Friendship and relationship are two terms that are intertwined. You really can’t take one from the other.
Friendships are relationships while relationship need the idea of friendship to thrive.
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