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Learn what makes a good friend and how to spot a bad one. Discover how to find and nurture meaningful friendships that enhance your well-being and happiness.
- A. Morningstar
- They’re Kind. You’d think this was a given for any type of human interaction, but kindness is often overlooked. We’ve likely experienced that “bend over backwards” kind of kindness that, to be honest, makes people a little uncomfortable.
- They’re Honest. Another of the main qualities of a good friend is that they will let you know when they’re hurt by you, confused by you, see you being foolish, and can tell when you’re hiding.
- They’re Individual. A sense of identity creates amazing bonds. Good friends aren’t trying to become you, they’re fully-realized unto themselves. Their sense of individuality plays off your own, and even enhances areas in both of you that may have gone unnoticed before.
- They’re Adventurous. Boredom is the absence of stimulation, be it mental, emotional, or physical stimulation. Good friends satisfy all three of those areas; they’re adventurous in that they like to do things, think things, feel things, and share in those things with you.
- You like being around them. First things first: You will like being around a truly good friend. That may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how many people don't actually realize they feel bad around certain people.
- They boost you up. Good friends support you and lift you up when you're down, with Page noting they can be our biggest champions. And as Leeds says, "A good friend is also someone who is committed to their own growth and encourages growth in you," adding that they won't feel jealous or competitive with you, and they'll inspire you to be the fullest version of yourself.
- They're there for you. When the going gets tough, good friends get going. Just like our romantic relationships require effort, maintenance, and care, so, too, do our friendships.
- They share in your happiness and pain. The best friends in our lives are the ones who can celebrate our wins with us but also share in our pain. Page says you know you've got a good friend when you accomplish something and can tell your friend is truly happy for you.
- Supportive. Whether it's a cheering squad on the big day or a comforting shoulder during tough times, a supportive friend is there, enriching the friendship with strength and encouragement.
- Loyalty. Loyalty is about standing up for each other, being there in times of need, and never betraying trust. This quality strengthens the bond and wraps you in a comforting blanket of security.
- Honesty. Honesty lets you see each other without distortions. A sincere friend doesn't sugarcoat the truth or hide behind fake compliments. It’s this transparency that builds a genuine relationship.
- Empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and share a friend's feelings. It's putting yourself in their shoes and offering support. Empathetic friends make us feel seen, offering a safe space to communicate.
- Friends who are empathetic. Being empathetic is the ability to actively try and take yourself out of your own shoes and put yourself in someone else’s.
- Friends who are selfless. Our friends who are the most happy and positive are the ones who are grounded, who care, and who do not always think about themselves.
- Friends who are trustworthy. Being trustworthy is a trait that is essential for understanding that the deepest relationships are the ones in which we can confide in each other.
- Friends with shared interests. Whether this pertains to hobbies, sports, goals, education, values, or religion, we often prefer spending time with people who enjoy the same things as we do.
Sep 28, 2022 · You feel comfortable being yourself with them, and you can trust them. A true friend can also be called a good friend or a real friend. In this guide, you will learn signs that can help you understand the qualities of what makes a true friend.
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Mar 23, 2015 · The 13 Essential Friendship Traits. How much do you agree with each statement? I am trustworthy. I am honest with others. I am generally very dependable. I am loyal to the people I care...
