I've recently heard a couple of people speaking about going home for Christmas and how much they enjoy that time because they can completely let down their guard and feel home. Obviously I understand, and there is the a special feeling many only get at home (considering you have a good relationship with your parents/they are still together etc).
However, what I am trying to get is: why is that?
What do you feel different at home? Because you are accepted as you are? Because no one will hold a grudge against you? No expectation to fulfil? You can be you without any judgement?
Now, while there are certainly people on this earth you don't need to be close with, you should generally be around people who you can be your true self with and who won't judge, but rather want you to be you and show your full self.
Purposely pick people who are happy with themselves (or maybe not), but will never put you down because of any self serving or other reasons bc of own insecurities. On the other side, you can also create this environment. By opening up, you allow/signal others that is absolutely ok to open up. That's the power, magic and contagiousness of vulnerability. That's when you suddenly see a dynamic, tone & body language change of a person and you know they are actually being themselves now. Truly.
Now, I am not talking about the uncomfortable oversharing self-deprecation, but your true genuine open and trusting self.
1. Spend time with people who give you that feeling, where you can feel home and yourself
2. Purposely decide to open up more and create those special bonds
This way you might end up with similar levels of deep connection and unconditional support/relationship as you have with your parents/other loved ones.