Article: In all relationships, communication is key. Many fights and misunderstandings stem from a lack of communication. Going forward, it's important to be 100% honest about your actions and feelings in your friendship. If an issue arises in the future, make it clear that you'd like to resolve those issues by talking with each other instead of talking to other people or doing something that either of you may regret. Bring issues up immediately instead of bottling up your feelings. When we suppress feelings and emotions, we are more likely to boil over and say or do something we regret. If a problem arises, address it right away. It is important to know what you and your friend expect out of a friendship in order for it to work. For example, you may deal with situations differently, or some things may bother you more than others. This is why you must establish expectations. Tell your friend what you need from them in a friendship. Being honest will help your friend to better meet your needs. Explain to your friend what you need from them using the "I-message" formula: "I feel _____ when you _______ and I need for you to _______." Refrain from assigning blame to your friend, though. Ask your friend what they need from you in a friendship. Again, friendship is a two-way street. Therefore, you need to meet your friends needs as well. Ask them to be honest about how you can be a better friend to them. Be ready to meet both needs. Resolution begins when you start understanding each other and the situation. As you hear similar needs from each other, the differences are put aside and you are able to work things through. It's impossible to move forward if you are unable to forgive. Holding onto anger or grudges isn't healthy for you and will ruin any chance you have of a real friendship. It takes a lot of strength to forgive, but it will help you grow as a person and as a friend. Tell your friend that you forgive them it is an important factor in rebuilding trust for both of you. It will mean a lot to your friend to hear that you forgive them, and saying "I forgive you" will help you move on from the situation. If you cannot forgive this person for their actions, you cannot be friends with him or her. Trying to have a relationship with someone you hold anger towards isn't healthy for you or for them. Life is too short to hold grudges.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Improve communication with your friend. Establish expectations for your friendship. Be willing to forgive.