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Qualities of a Good Friend Essay: Friendship is important in our lives. It is an emotional and social support system that can help us feel better about ourselves. It also gives us someone to lean on when we need it. But how do we know if we have a good friend? What makes a good friend? What qualities should that person have?

First, you should be able to trust your friend. You should feel confident that they will always be there for you and that they will not betray you or gossip about you behind your back. Second, a good friend must be loyal and devoted. They must want what is best for you even if it does not benefit them in the process. Third, a good friend should not judge or criticize you for who you are or where you come from.

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Friends make our lives better. They make us laugh, show us new things, and always help us out when we need them. It can be hard to tell if you’re a good friend because everyone has their own definition of what makes a good friend. But there are some qualities that everyone agrees on as being important for making a friend into a good friend – those qualities are patience, honesty, and the willingness to listen. However, some people are not looking for friendship that is full of these qualities – instead, they become friends because of common interests.

Qualities of a Good Friend

Following are a few common qualities of good friends:

Mutual respect – The basis for a good friendship is mutual respect. This means the two friends should have enough respect for each other to share their thoughts and feelings. Good friends should also be able to hear and accept criticism from one another without getting angry or shutting down. Friendships can’t be built on lies or secrets because such a relationship will eventually crumble.

Trust – Friends are a knowledgeable support system that can be relied on. They help you feel supported and loved, and they’re the ones who will always have your back. Friends shouldn’t have to worry about being betrayed or taken advantage of – but unfortunately, this is a reality that many people experience every day.

Honesty – Transparency and honesty are essential for true friendships. When we share our thoughts, feelings and opinions with our friends, we come to know them on a more personal level. This leads to more meaningful relationships as well as communication that is open, honest and constructive.

Loyalty – Loyal friends are important in life because they make you feel valued and understood. Loyal friends will give you advice when you need it, they will be there to celebrate the good times with you, and also make an effort to be there for the bad times. Moreover, loyal friends can offer a different perspective of a situation.

Happiness – Friendships are all about reciprocating the good times that you share with each other. The best friends will be able to laugh at your jokes and tell you about their day. A good friend should know how to make you feel happy and fulfilled. They should be someone who will send you a funny meme or text when you’re feeling down. They should be the first person to call when your car breaks down on the side of the road. They should also know how to have a good time with each other, whether it’s watching TV, playing video games or going out dancing together.

Reliable – A good friend is someone who cares about you and will always be there for you. They listen to your problems and help you find a solution. You can rely on them when you need a shoulder to cry on or just some company. This is especially important as the need for emotional support is growing. There are many people in the world who don’t have friends or family to talk to when they’re feeling down, and don’t have time or money for a therapist. Good friends listen to your problems and help you find a solution.

Qualities Of A Good Essay

How Does One Work Towards Becoming A Good Friend?

We meet people in our lives, some of them are friends, some are acquaintances. Some are just passing by. The most important thing in trying to become a good friend is to be a good listener. Listening is not just about turning on your ears when they speak or telling them what you think they want to hear. Listening is about being attentive and taking everything in – their words, their feelings, their likes, their dislikes. That also means that it’s okay for you to share your own thoughts too but do it with the intention of contributing something meaningful and not just for the sake of your ego or need for attention. Other tips to be a better friend include:

Be supportive – Let your friend know that you are there for him or her. It can be difficult to know how to respond when someone you know is having a hard time – such as having to deal with the death of a loved one. In such cases, the best thing that you can do is be supportive.

Only offer advice when asked – Try not to tell your friend what to do, unless you’ve been asked to. Listen to their thoughts and feelings and offer advice if they ask for it. When you’ve been asked to provide your friend with advice, it’s okay to offer options or advice. However, offering advice without being asked can come across as rude and condescending. Sometimes, it can be difficult to know what advice you should offer without being prompted.

Listen – Listen to your friend, provide them with your time and attention, and be there for them in any way possible. This is the most important thing when it comes to any type of relationship. Listen to who they are, what they have to say and provide them your inputs and suggestions if needed. However, don’t let yourself get wrapped up in your own thoughts or problems because they come first.

Conclusion

Friends are the people who you spend your time with. They are there for you through thick and thin. They can be your confidant, your advisor, or your sidekick. Friends are there to help you get through life’s tough moments and also share the joyous moments with you.

Regardless, friendship is a complicated process. It takes more than just being there for somebody. It’s about being there for the right reasons, at the right time, and in the right way. The best friends are those who are accountable so that they can support their friend through tough times.

FAQ’s on Qualities of a Good Friend

Question 1.
What is a good friend?

Answer:
A good friend is someone that you can talk to about anything, someone you know will be there for you no matter what happens. A good friend is honest with you, even when it hurts, and will always have your back. A good friend will put up with you but won’t put up with your excuses.

Question 2.
Why are good friends important?

Answer:
Friends are an important part of any person’s life. Friends are there to listen, share your happiness as well as sorrow, and be honest with you. A good friend is someone who is understanding and supportive. They are also honest with you about what you need to do to improve yourself or your situation.

Question 3.
What are the qualities of a good friend?

Answer:
A good friend is someone who is supportive and understanding, and someone who is honest and willing to tell you the truth.

The saying ‘a good friend is hard to find’ doesn’t seem true when you are surrounded by good friends. But during seasons of life when friendships are hollow or nonexistent, the saying feels especially painful and true.

I had to grow and change to become the kind of person that could find and keep good friends. I am always learning what makes a good friend and am fortunate to have good friends in my life that help me grow and become a better person.

The proverb, ‘to make a good friend, be a good friend’ has been a reality for me. I am able to be a good friend, when I view friendships through the love and freedom I have as an accepted, beloved child of God instead of through the lens of my personal needs.

Why is it Important to Have Friends?

It is indisputable that friends serve a vital role in our lives. We crave fellowship with people who love and admire us just the way we are and want to spend time with us. Friends offer mutual esteem, affection, and respect.

Why is it important to have friends? Many studies have shown that our life is much richer and more joyful when we walk beside a friend.

“Some people have an easier time establishing and maintaining friendships than others. And some of us long for closer friendships or try to figure out why an existing or promising relationship fizzled out. In these cases, we may jump first to judge a friend’s behavior, rather than our own. Perhaps we forget that relationships rely on mutual interactions.”

Suzanne Degges-White Ph.D.

Jesus came into the world to be our friend and demonstrate how our human relationships can work. Jesus had friends and spoke of their importance in His life. When we embrace our identity in Christ, we are able to live more like Jesus and become better friends.

Another reason why it is important to have friends is when we meet someone and a connection is formed, it is affirming and we feel loved and accepted. Forming deep connections, where we laugh, build trust, share ideas and secrets, is an invigorating part of life.

2 ladies-what makes a good friendWhat Qualities Make a Good Friend?

What qualities make a good friend? There are many character qualities that good friends demonstrate to each other. I believe factors such as personality, chemistry, and availability draw people together, but that is just the starting point of friendships.

When these 6 qualities exist between good friends, they are the glue that is vital in friendships whether they are friends for a lifetime or a season.

When we understand what makes a good friend and we develop loyalty, dependability, generosity, and forgiveness in ourselves, it is easier to attract others who exhibit these qualities that make a good friend.

Qualities of a Good Friend: Loyalty

The first quality of what makes a good friend is loyalty. When we are loyal, we support each other and are committed. Sometimes it is big acts of loyalty and other times it is the small acts that speak volumes about how loyal someone is; loyalty is truly measured in the trenches when no one is watching.

After we were finished negotiating for our new home, my husband called.   “Hey, I think I want that mirror in the bedroom.” “Oh no, I said, “we just signed off on the deal.” “Ask Donna if she can ask the sellers anyway.” I dreaded calling my longtime friend and realtor.

She had done a great job house hunting for us and working with the sellers. She could have easily responded, “oh no, that deal is done, we can’t do that”; but when I asked her to jump back in, she said without hesitation, “of course I will help you. You are my friend and I am here beside you until the job is done”.

Good friends are loyal even when it is inconvenient and uncomfortable. Donna stood by us, and of course, we got the mirror!

Qualities of a Good Friend: Supportive

The second quality of what makes a good friend is when we are supported through the highs and lows of life. When we are supportive, we provide encouragement, emotional guidance, and physical help. Being supportive is loyalty in action. We may not always want to jump in, but because we value someone, we do it anyway.

When we moved to another state, I was apprehensive but excited. After a few weeks, I unpacked the last box and put my baby down for a nap. As I sat down the phone rang. My friend Teeny’s voice was just what I needed to hear.

As she asked me how I was doing, an avalanche of tears poured out and I could barely speak. “I don’t know anyone here:what have we done!” She gently encouraged me on the phone until I calmed down. 2 days later she jumped on a plane and was standing outside my door.

Good friends are supportive! Despite what she had on her calendar she rescheduled her plans to support a friend who needed some TLC. This is another important trait of what makes a good friend.

Qualities of a Good Friend: Dependable

The third quality of what makes a good friend is dependability. Good friends are dependable which means they are trustworthy, reliable, and can be counted on to stand beside you. Being trustworthy is a critical, stand-alone trait, but between good friends keeping confidences without dependability isn’t usually enough for a friendship to flourish.

After being in labor for hours, the Doctor told us our baby would have to be delivered via C-section. I was very disappointed but wanted what was best for our baby. As I was whisked away, the atmosphere changed from a sense of warm community to all business. My baby was born healthy and happy.

Weeks later as we watched a video of what I had missed, I was comforted by a small voice in the background. As the doctor answered numerous questions and spoke to our friends and family about the baby, my sister in law, Michelle, can be heard (off camera) quietly asking, “but how is Mary doing? Is she ok?”

Good friends are dependable even when we are not expecting it! Something about Michelle remembering me in a moment of celebration is a sweet memory and an example of what makes a good friend. Michelle acted as my advocate and stood for me without anyone asking or watching.

girls walking-what makes a good friend

Qualities of a Good Friend: Generous

The fourth quality of what makes a good friend is generosity; showing a readiness to give to others. Deep generosity is expressed not from a place of abundance but from a heart filled with gratitude and appreciation.

As we tried to get in touch with friends and family, we were struggling to stay hopeful. We had just learned our home had been destroyed in a hurricane and we had no place to live. I miraculously reached my friend Heidi and she invited us to stay with her. When we arrived, she took us in as family and helped us get back on our feet.

We then moved closer to home and stayed with my friend Laurie (& another friend Cheryl, helped us too!). She embraced us and helped us move away from grief and back toward restoration. It was not convenient for either of these families to instantly take in a family of 5, but they did. Without the generosity of these 2 friends this tragedy would have been unbearable.

Good friends are generous! Good friends give to others for no other reason than we love and appreciate them.

Qualities of a Good Friend: Fun

The fifth quality of what makes a good friend is the ability to have fun together. We are all created uniquely, so our sense of humor and what fun looks like is different for different people. But finding others to enjoy spending time with and laughing together is life-giving.

After the devastating losses we experienced during Hurricane Katrina, several friends and I decided to book a girls’ Christian cruise to Mexico. It promised to be a few days to have fun and enjoy life. We didn’t realize until we got on the ship that the trip wasn’t exactly as we had read in the brochure. We decided to approach the trip with a sense of humor and just have fun.

We met new people, sang karaoke (quite badly) & laughed often. Kristi, Ann, Stacey and I were even featured in the next year’s brochure for the cruise.(which we did not take again!) The cruise was not as we expected, but since good friends are fun and share life’s joy, we still enjoy talking about our crazy vacation.

Good friends are fun because joy and laughter are an important part of life. Having fun together is also when we can be our truest selves in an accepting space. Finding friends we enjoy doing life with is truly a great treasure. As it says in Proverbs, “a cheerful heart is good medicine”.

Qualities of a Good Friend: Forgiving

The sixth quality of what makes a good friend is forgiveness. In many ways, this is the most important quality. Without a steady stream of forgiveness, the other traits will not matter. Love and forgiveness go hand in hand; to experience great love requires great forgiveness.

There are several people I admire that exhibit a spirit of overwhelming forgiveness. One is my friend Stacey who is very forgiving toward family and friends despite adversity. She demonstrates that good friends are forgiving even in painful situations.

But the greatest example of good friends are forgiving is our friend Jesus who died to demonstrate His level of forgiveness for us.

John 15:15  

“No longer do I call you servants, for the servant, does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.”

John 15:13  

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”

Because of the grace and forgiveness that Jesus shows us every day, we can strive to be forgiving people. When I let those who have rejected or betrayed me off the hook, I truly understand that forgiveness is at the core of what makes a good friend.

Forgiveness is a choice that may take our feelings time to catch up with, but there is great freedom and joy in the decision to forgive.

Crown of thorns-what makes a good friend

Bible Verses about Friendship

If you are looking for a good friend or want to deepen a friendship, here are some Bible verses about friendship. These Bible verses along with praying for a good friend can help you focus on things that can help you understand what makes a good friend.

Also, after the loss of a friend or a disappointment, the Bible can provide extra encouragement and courage to reach out to someone and start a friendship.

8 Bible Verses about Friendship

  1. “There are “friends” who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24 NLT
  2. “A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.” Proverbs 17:17 NLT
  3. How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! Psalm 133:1 NLT
  4. This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:12-13 NLT
  5. “So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT
  6. Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.  If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NLT
  7. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. 1 Peter 4:8-9 NLT
  8. “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven! Matthew 18:21-22 NLT

Ladies hugging-what makes a good friend

What makes a Good Friend? 

My prayer is that you have one or two people in your life that demonstrate the qualities of what makes a good friend. If not, you can pray for God to bring you a good friend.

You can work on demonstrating these 6 qualities of what makes a good friend to those around you and it should serve as a friend boomerang.

Ultimately what makes a good friend is being a good friend. Don’t be tempted to give up too easily; it is worth persevering for the reward of a good friend.

Also, sometimes we must be willing to take a chance to make a good friend. We can’t let fear or the loss of a friend prevent us from trying to meet people and make new connections.

I recently asked some friends for feedback on what makes a good friend. The responses included all of the above, but a few others:

Yvette said (Be Real),

“I embrace friends that go beyond “weather talk” (because that is easy). Tackling difficult conversations is the sign of real, solid friendship.”

Bonnie & Jennifer said (Be Accepting),

“Accepts me where I am”

Laura & Susie said (Be Authentic),

“Authenticity; I can’t tell you about my hurts and struggles if you don’t share your own. Willing to journey the path of heart transformation with me in a real, honest & authentic way.

I enjoyed highlighting some of the people who have demonstrated what makes a good friend. I wish I could list everyone who has been a good friend by loving and supporting me along the way; I remember your kindness and one day you may appear in one of my stories!

What qualities do you find important in your good friends? Would love to hear from you!

Interviewer: Hello everybody! It’s Teenagers Round the World Channel. Our guest today is a teenager from Russia and we are going to discuss friendship. We’d like to know our guest’s point of view on this issue. Please answer five questions. So, let’s get started.

Interviewer: What qualities make a good friend?

Student: I think a good friend should be reliable and supportive. Good friends are also good listeners and have a sense of humour.

Interviewer: Why do people need friends?

Student: In my opinion, people need friends for companionship, emotional support, and to share experiences with. Having friends also helps us to feel less lonely and improves our overall well-being.

Interviewer: How do teenagers benefit from social media friends?

Student: As I see it, teenagers can benefit from social media friends by expanding their social circle, staying connected with people they may not be able to see in person. Social media also gives them the opportunity to connect with people who share similar interests.

Interviewer: Where do teenagers form friendships?

Student: Teenagers can form friendships in a variety of settings such as school, extracurricular activities and online communities. Also, they can make friends through shared hobbies or interests.

Interviewer: What would life be like without friends?

Student: I feel that without friends, life would be lonely and lack the support and companionship that friends provide. Besides, life would be quite dull and unfulfilling without friends.

Interviewer: Thank you very much for your interview.

1 page, 452 words

What qualities do you look for when choosing a friend? There are many different qualities that describe a good friend. Everybody has different ideas on what they want and need in a friend which could range from, someone you can relate with to someone that is the complete opposite of you. What I want in a friend is something simple; when I choose my friends I would like them to be honest, trustworthy, and dependable.

Honesty, to me is the most important quality to look for in a friend because if you have honesty it will bring many other great qualities along with it. Honesty is the foundation of a good friendship. Without honesty the friendship would fall apart. I once had a friend that constantly lied about everything, until it got to the point where she lied so much that it was hard to trust her anymore. This brings to the next quality I look for in a friend, trust.

Trust, is another very important quality that I look for in a friend. Trust is important because in a friendship you should be able to trust one other, weather it comes to keeping secrets or promises. When you have a problem you need to talk about with your friend, you should be able to trust them not to go around talking about you. You should be able to depend on your friends to be your friend because of the kind of person you are.

Finally, dependability is the last quality I look for in a friend. This quality sums up the other two qualities I look for in a friend, honesty and trust. If you have honesty and trust then you get dependability along with them. Take honesty, if your friends are honest then you can depend on them to tell the truth about things you ask them or they will be honest with you and come to you when they have problems. Then take trust; if your friends are trustworthy then you can depend on them to not talk about you behind your back. Dependability is also important because you should be able to depend on your friends be around when you have problems and need to talk to someone.

1 page, 318 words

The Essay on Honesty is important

Q. “Honesty is important, of course, but deception can actually make it easier for people to get along. In a recent study, for example, one out of every four of the lies told be participants was told solely for the benefit of another person. In fact, most lies are harmless social imitates in which people pretend to like someone or something more than they actually do.” Is deception ever justified? …

In conclusion, the qualities I look for in a friend are honesty, trust and dependability. I think these qualities are important because, to me they are the foundation of every great friendship. You are not going to find friends that are completely perfect. Friends might lie and hurt you at times but they make up if they are true friends. Everyone has a flaw but, if they try to stay honest and loyal to you then that is close enough.

All Papers Are For Research And Reference Purposes Only. You must cite our web site as your source.

Qualities of good friends

Photo by Sam Manns

Good friends are not that hard to find as long as you know how to recognize them. But, unfortunately, sometimes, most people don’t even realize that they are already in the presence of one just because they’re too busy hanging out with the wrong crowd.

The best people you can have as friends may vary, and they have their own set of unique attitudes and personalities. They may be your funny classmate from your high school days or that thoughtful coworker who would always remind you to take it easy.

Sometimes, friends can come from the most unexpected introductions – that stranger whom you shared an umbrella with on a rainy afternoon or even a random acquaintance who suggested a good book for you to read over the weekends.

There are different types of individuals who can be good friends, and the following important qualities make them one of the best people in the world.

1. Loyal: Good friends stay even when everyone else has left.

When the entire world has already abandoned you, your good friends will be the only ones left to help you stand again – and it’s everything that you’ll ever need.

With their loyalty, good friends will never let you feel that you’re alone even if you think that you don’t deserve anyone, especially after a failure or a disappointment.  

2. Accepting: A good friend doesn’t judge you for being different.

A good friend will respect your decisions and accept how you want to live your life – even if they don’t understand it. They will be there for you to help you celebrate the person you want to become. They will encourage you to recognize your uniqueness, and they will be there to help you face the world without the fear of being judged or rejected.

3. Honest: Good friends let you see reality as it is.

Good friends won’t sugarcoat things, especially if they know that letting you deny reality can eventually harm you. They will be there to slap you with the most painful truth, even if it means hurting your feelings. They are willing to look like the wrong person just to save you from a more devastating consequence.

Qualities of a Good Friend

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4. Caring: A good friend will remind you to be good to yourself.

A good friend is that person who will remind you to love yourself more. This is true, especially if you’re in a toxic romantic relationship. They will remind you every day to look after yourself more and be good to yourself first instead of slowly breaking your heart because of a toxic partner.

They will remind you that you deserve self-love and that taking care of yourself should be one of your priorities.

ALSO READ: 15 Ways to Show Your Friends that You Care

5. Positive: Good friends can help you love life more.

Good friends are good for your mental and emotional health. These are the people who will tell you how to love life more, to be more optimistic, and how to live it to the fullest. They will be the reminders that life is an adventure that should not be kept waiting – and trust that they’ll be there to make every journey more fun and exciting.

6. Inspiring: A good friend teaches you how to become a better person.

Good friends are your real-life guide to becoming the best version of yourself. They will inspire you to be a better person by learning to be a more caring, loving, and kind individual. With their example, they will help you realize that you have a lot more to offer.

ALSO READ: 10 Inspiring Ways to be a Better Friend

7. Patient: Good friends will be there – even when you’re at your worst.

Even when you’re not exactly an angel, trust your friends to be still around no matter how annoying or inconsiderate you become. This is because they recognize that not everyone is perfect, and everyone has their bad days.

Just make sure to make it up to them and thank them for sticking around, especially when you’re in your worst mood.

8. Comforting: Good friends make you feel safe and at peace with yourself.

A good friendship can be your sanctuary – a refuge from the chaos and the mess of work, school, and other aspects of your busy life. This is because good friends can quickly and effortlessly make you feel safe and at peace with yourself.

In the presence of good friends, you feel relaxed and secure, knowing that you’re with the people who genuinely love and care about you.

9. Present: A good friend always shows up when you need someone the most.

They will never be too busy or too occupied to spend time with you. They will always make sure that you won’t be alone in your most painful moments, and they will see to it that they’re there during your happiest celebrations.

Time and distance don’t matter to them because you are a big part of their life, and they’ll never hesitate to show or prove it.

Qualities of a Good Friend

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10. Supportive: A good friend believes in your potential to reach your dreams.

A good friend will always see the best in you – even if you’re already too ambitious. For them, you can do anything you put your soul into because they believe in your potential. They are your number one fans who will cheer you up in every victory, loss, accomplishment, or failure.

11. Committed: A good friend will always be in your life no matter what.

Even if they’re far away and regardless of the years that you’re apart, you will always have a friend in them – because a good friendship is forever. It’s the best kind of relationship that you will ever have with another person. It will never end: no breakups, no goodbyes – just pure love, respect, and appreciation of being connected with this particular soul.

You’re one of the lucky few if you have someone you think of as a good friend in your life. But, just as how they are good to you, you also have to do your part to make it work. How? Appreciate their existence and, most importantly, let them know that their presence in your life makes every day worthwhile through your words and actions.

Hopefully, this article was able to help you realize the true essence of friendship and how you can recognize a genuine friend when you’re in the presence of one.

Being a good friend

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Being good to your friends is not only about helping them when they need help or being with them when they need someone to talk to. Good friends are more than that. They have patience, understanding, selflessness, and some sacrifice.

How to Be a Good Friend

Good and genuine friends are great to have in your life. But in order to earn them, you must also be a good friend to them. Here are 20 ways to be a good friend and even the best friend they can ever have.

1. Be a good listener.

Listen to your friends while they are talking and be enthusiastic about their life stories. A good friend is interested in what’s happening in their friends’ lives. So give them the chance to talk, listen eagerly, and make them feel that someone is interested in their stories too.

2. Admit your mistakes and weaknesses.

Avoid acting like an omnipotent and omniscient person. Understand that we cannot do or know everything. Being a know-it-all person will only annoy your friends. It will also make them feel that you don’t believe in them. To be a good friend, learn to humble yourself and show that like other human beings, you are also susceptible to making mistakes.

3. Be a peacemaker and learn to apologize sincerely.

Learn how to say sorry when you have hurt your friends, even if they have also hurt you. Be a peace-loving friend by being the first one to apologize. Prove your sincerity with humility.

4. Forgive them.

Forgive their sins even before they ask forgiveness from you. Some friends may not realize that they are already doing things that are offensive to you. Either you tell them frankly that they have offended you and they must apologize to you, or simply forgive them without telling them anyway. Your goal is to avoid hatred from growing and corrupting your heart.

5. Get rid of pride in your heart.

Pride is one of the most destructive forces in any relationship, including friendship. It’s not easy to show humility if your heart is corrupted by pride. With a proud heart, you will find it hard to apologize or forgive someone. Get rid of pride in your heart by being a more genuine friend who really cares. Cleanse your heart with kindness, love, and compassion. Don’t plant hatred in your heart, as it amplifies the pride that exists inside.

6. Help your friends because they need it, not because you need it.

In other words, help them or give something to them because it makes them happy, not because it makes you happy or gives you some comfort. Helping a friend should be done without self-interest.

Make your friends feel that they can be trusted by sharing your problems. Make them feel that they are also needed and are dependable by asking them for some help.

8. Love their loved ones.

Live in harmony with your friend’s loved ones, like their spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, parents, other family members, and even other friends. Avoid getting jealous of them just because they also share in your friend’s time and attention.

9. Keep your promises and don’t lie.

Did you promise to be at your friend’s wedding day? Did you agree to go with them on a beach trip? Whatever your promises are, whether they are small or big, always deliver them. Do your best to not disappoint your friends.

10. Keep their secrets.

Keeping the secrets that they have entrusted you will show how trustworthy you are to them. Don’t make them feel betrayed. Take care and protect their secrets.

If you trust them, you will share your secrets with them. And if you are really a good friend, you won’t hide anything from them. Share your secrets to them as they tell you theirs.

12. Trust them more.

Trust your friends’ own decisions and actions. Understand that they know what’s best for themselves. Also, trust the good pieces of advice they give you. Do not ignore their warnings. Understand that they only want what’s good for you.

13. Learn how to take a joke.

Jokes among friends are what make friendship fun, not boring. Learn how to take your friends’ jokes. Do not get easily angered. Do not create a blockage that will hinder the fun and laughter inside your friendship. Be patient, understanding, and keep cool.

14. Show some respect.

Respect your friends’ privacy. Give them some space if they need it. Furthermore, respect your friends’ uniqueness. Be careful when dealing with the things which are sensitive to them, like the things that are related to their gender, family, and romantic relationships.

15. Be loyal.

Don’t exchange your friendship with money, popularity, and other selfish interests. Be loyal, not only to your friend but also to your friendship.

ALSO READ: 10 Ways to Keep Your Friends Forever

16. Don’t make them feel alone.

Never make your friends feel alone, even during a fight, argument or misunderstanding. Do not create a wall that will stop you from communicating, caring, and helping for good no matter what.

17. Help them grow as a person.

Do not corrupt your friends’ character. Instead, help them grow as a person. Be a role model of good virtues, like self-discipline, patience, persistence, honesty, and kindness.

18. Appreciate their efforts.

Whether it’s a small or big thing, learn to value what your friends have done for you. You may not know how much thinking, planning, time consuming, and efforts they have spent just to offer something for you. Of course, genuine friends will not expect something in return for any kindness they show you, but a little appreciation would not harm you.

19. Be their best support system.

People need a support system to go on and encourage them in their endeavors in life. One great supporter they can have is their friends. Be that friend who cheers them up to achieve their goals and dreams. Do not be that self-centered friend who competes with them and tries to pull them down.

20. Be selfless and make a sacrifice.

Real friends make sacrifices for their friends. Without sacrifice, you will find it hard to follow the tips above. Sacrifice your own pride to be humble enough to forgive your friends. Sacrifice your own time to be with them and not make them feel alone. Sacrifice your energy to help them in any way. And sacrifice your self-interest to make your friendship grow and even last forever.

Good friends are hard to find. If you cannot find them, find someone first within yourself. In other words, develop yourself to be a good friend to others. When you become a good person, you will naturally attract a lot of friends into your life. Just don’t forget to carefully choose who your close friends will be. Remember that bad company may corrupt your good character. Therefore, as a precaution, to maintain your goodness as a friend, choose good friends too.

ALSO READ: 10 Inspiring Ways to be a Better Friend

15 Ways to Show Your Friends that You Care

1. Listen to their rants.
2. Tell them how much you care.
3. Appreciate and compliment them.
4. Be there when they need you.
5. Always communicate with them.
6. Make time with them.
7. Show them social media love.
8. Celebrate their accomplishments.
9. Surprise them!
10. Go on new adventures.
11. Encourage them during bad times.
12. Introduce them to someone you love.
13. Understand their struggle.
14. Ask them if they need help from you.
15. Be a loyal and caring friend for them every day.

Please visit How to Show Your Friends that You Care for the details.

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True Friends vs Fake Friends: What are the Differences?

Charm Villalon

Charm is a writer and a student. She is currently completing her Graduate Degree in Language Studies while refining her creativity and related skills through the visual arts: drawing and painting.

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“Friendship isn’t about who you’ve known the longest. It’s about who walked into your life, said, “I’m here for you”, and proved it.” ~ Anonymous

Friends come into your life in all manners and ways. But you should make sure your friend has the qualities of a good friend: someone who is always there for you; someone who is your biggest supporter; someone who sees you, accepts you for all you are – the good, the bad, and the ugly – and still wants to be around. 

It may seem like true friends are hard to find these days and that everyone is either out to get you or get something from you. 

This probably sounds strange: I met two people in my early thirties and we instantly just clicked. Since then, they’ve been good friends (dare I say the bestest of friends?), and they have all the qualities of a good friend. 

Do you want to know what qualities a true friend should possess? I’ve got all the details for you, right here. 

What Is a Friend? 

A friend is someone you continuously connect with. It can be a connection over shared interests, values, beliefs, or experiences. You share a close affection with a friend, and you enjoy having them around. A friend can live next to you, on the opposite side of town, 1,000 miles away, or even be someone you haven’t met in person (aka an online friend). 

Friendship comes in various forms and degrees. And you might see a person as a friend, while someone else may not view your relationship with that person as friendship. So, a quick note here: as long as the person is there for you and you both regard each other as friends, you are friends. 

But it’s important to distinguish the kinds of friendship, and some of these friendships overlap. Anyone in these categories can be a good friend. 

Lifelong Friends 

Generally, these are friends you’ve known your whole life, and it’s likely you met in kindergarten or primary school. However, I believe that even friends you’ve met a few years ago (if they are true friends) are lifelong friends because they’ll be walking your journey of life with you

Best Friends (BFFs – Best Friends Forever)

A best friend can also be a lifelong friend. They are typically your closest and dearest friend – the person you share everything with, and you have a deeper and stronger connection with your BFF than with anyone else. 

The person who’s your best friend feels like family; actually, they are family. That’s how close you are. 

Close Friends 

A close friend can also be a lifelong friend, and while you are close with them, you don’t share everything with them. You hold them at a distance, but you do trust and rely on them

Social Group Friends 

Generally, social group friends are people you socialize with, and you are kind of friends (casual friends). They may be friends of friends, your partner’s friends, or just people you know. 

Activity Friends 

Activity friends are people you do stuff with. If you hike, you may hike with a hiking group and some of these hikers become friends – either casual or close ones. They can be gym buddies, friends in your cooking class, or people in your book club. 

Online Friends 

With technology being what it is today, online friends are a real thing. You can be just as close to someone intellectual and emotionally as you are with friends you can see and touch. 

There’s a reason why someone who’s trying to lose weight or achieve another goal joins an online group. They find like-minded friends who end up being their staunchest supporters, cheerleaders, and close friends. 

Friends’ vs Acquaintances vs Family 

Are acquaintances friends, and can family be friends, too? 

An acquaintance is just someone you know. You see them frequently or rarely. They can be a coworker, your favorite bus driver, the barista at Starbucks, or someone you talk to on occasion. 

You don’t share an emotional bond with this person, and you don’t actually know them. It’s more like you know of them. And when you do chat, it’s surface-level stuff like: “How are you?” and “Did you see that Macy’s is running a discount on XX?” 

Family are relatives, family, acquaintances, or friends. My mom is my best friend, my dad and grandparents are my family, the rest fall more in the relative/acquaintance bowl because I don’t really know them and some of them are unsafe for my mental health. 

Why Are Friendships Important? 

Society has us believing that people who don’t have friends are weird and there’s something wrong with them. I don’t believe that’s – always – true. 

Some of us meet our real and true friends much later in life, and while you perhaps feel like you don’t need friends or people in your life, I guarantee that when you have good friends, it adds so much beauty, love, support, and wonderful things to your life. 

qualities of a good friend essay | qualities of a good friend paragraph | 50 qualities of a good friend
The person who’s your best friend feels like family; actually, they are family. That’s how close you are. 

It is important to have good friends (not crappy or so-so friends) in your life. 

A qualitative analysis study published in 2011 states that having friends positively influences your well-being. Good friends help you relieve stress as you have someone who can share your burdens and provide support. You also feel less lonely and isolated. In essence, friends add joy in your life. Having friends can increase your lifespan

Other benefits of having friends include that friendship:

  • Improves your mood 
  • Reduces anxiety, stress, and depression 
  • Helps you reach your goals 
  • Boosts your self-worth and self-confidence

Not every friend in your life is a good friend, but ideally, a good friend should possess all the following qualities. 

Quality #1. A Good Friend Holds Space for You 

Holding space for someone” is a term traditionally used in a therapeutic environment; these days, the phrase has become a buzzword (buzz-phrase?). But what does it mean?

When a good friend holds space for you, it means they create a safe space for you to just be. There’s only comfort and no judgment while you are vulnerable and searching for your authentic self. Your friend is present for you – emotionally, mentally, and physically. 

They lend you their heart and ears, expecting nothing in return. They are empathic and compassionate, accepting your truths without their ego or opinions getting in the way.

Psst… You should also be a good friend and hold space for them. 

Quality #2. They Honor Your Boundaries 

Boundaries are guidelines you create and enforce that teaches people how to treat you. These guidelines establish what you feel safe with and what’s unsafe for you. 

A good friend will respect your boundaries and won’t feel slighted when you say no. They’ll even go so far as to encourage you to uphold your boundaries.

If you do say no or that you aren’t comfortable with something and your friend guilt-trips you, gives you the silent treatment, or behaves passive-aggressively, it’s a red flag.

Quality #3. They’re Kind 

Kindness is often so underrated and overlooked. If your friend engages in “bend over backward” kindness, you’ll likely feel uncomfortable and wonder what they want from you. 

The kind of kindness I’m talking about is just plain kindness. A good friend is friendly, considerate, thoughtful, caring, gentle, and generous. There’s sincerity with everything they do for you, and they never expect anything in return.

Quality #4. A Good Friend Is Authentically Who They Are 

Can you imagine having a “good” friend who is everything you want a friend to be, only to discover weeks or months later that they were pretending? Or wearing a mask and only half of who they are? Or that they only said yes and amen because they thought that’s what you wanted? 

That’s a hell no. 

I want a friend who is unapologetically authentic. A good friend should be the individual they are, and their personality, strengths, and weaknesses should complement my own. Sure, my good friend and I can share interests, goals, and personality characteristics, but we shouldn’t be exact replicas or cookie-cutters of each other. 

Rather, we can mirror each other and still be who we each are at our core. This creates a symbiotic friendship where it just works when we are together, and we can be our own people. 

Quality #5. A Good Friend Is Honest 

You want a friend who is honest with you. You don’t actually want sugar-coated, beat-around-the-bush, half-truths and half-lies. Sure, they probably shouldn’t be so blunt that they are just inconsiderate either. 

A good friend is honest, plain and simple. They help you see reality as it really is or from another viewpoint you haven’t considered.

If you’re thinking the old “I don’t want to hurt your feelings” is a good thing, think again. These kinds of people hide, and they probably lie too. Discomfort is a part of life, and it isn’t authentic or honest to pretend it isn’t. 

An honest friend also lets you know when your words and actions have hurt them. You want someone to be straight with you, and then you know where you stand with them – always.

Quality #6. They Meet Your Love Language 

Love languages aren’t just a thing for romantic relationships. Anyone who loves you – your family, your friends, your partner – should meet your love language. That’s how you know they love you. 

If your friend doesn’t know what your love language is, you can have a conversation with them and ask them about their love language. 

I had a feeling that my BBF’s love language was actually a combination of love languages. Like a typical Libra, she likes gifts, but she also likes hearing that I love her (and no, you should never be shy to tell your friends you love them) and that actions match words. To be sure, I asked her one evening what her love language was because I want her to know how amazing she is and how blessed I am to have her as my bestie.

Quality #7. You Can Trust Them

Can someone actually be a good friend (or well, any friend of yours) if you don’t trust them? I don’t think so. 

There are degrees of trust you bestow on people. You wouldn’t trust a stranger. However, you’ll trust a casual friend a little, you’ll give more trust to a close friend, and you’ll give a lot of trust to a best friend.  

100 qualities of a good friend | 10 qualities of a good friend | 50 qualities of a good friend
When a good friend holds space for you, it means they create a safe space for you to just be.

A trustworthy friend gives you a good sounding board, and you can be fully yourself, knowing they won’t betray you or make you feel ashamed for “being less than” (even though you are always enough).

Quality #8. They Are Nurturing

A good friend is nurturing in a kind, non-overbearing way. They will take care of you and help you when you need it, and they’ll remind you that you need to be good to yourself

Your friend will remind you to self-care, to love yourself, and to be kind to yourself. They’ll push you to prioritize you – because you should have as much love (and more) as you give to others.

Quality #9. They Are Protective of You

Your friend won’t be overprotective because they see you as a possession. Instead, they’ll be protective in a good way. They love you, so they want you to be safe, and they want the best for you.

Your good friend may want to bubble wrap you and maybe knife anyone who doesn’t treat you right. You get it, right? You probably feel that way about your bestie, too. The good news is that your friend won’t ever do these things because while they also respect you, they know that you need to live your life. 

But where they can, they’ll walk through fire for you and keep you from harm’s way.  

Quality #10. A Good Friend Actively Listens to You

Most often, people just hear you, and sometimes not even. How many times do people ask you how you are as a reflex and not because they actually care about what you have to say. Or how about someone hearing what you say, but they’re so busy trying to think of a response that they don’t know what you really said or meant. 

A good friend will always ask with intention, and they’ll actively listen. They don’t project a “me, me, me” vibe. When you speak, they are in the moment with you (aka mindful). And they meet you with empathy and compassion. 

Moreover, they never listen to your hopes, dreams, fears, and anything else you may babble about out of obligation – they listen because they care about what you have to share. 

A good friend also never just gives advice because they can. Their first objective is to listen to you, and they should ask if you’d like an ear, a shoulder, help, or advice. 

Quality #11. They Have Your Back

A true friend always has your back – they’re your biggest supporter and your loudest cheerleader. They are always there for you – whether there’s something to celebrate, whether it’s just a normal, boring day, or whether there are obstacles, sadness, and dark times.  

In essence, they are your lifeline, they are always available, and they always give 150%. They give emotional support when you need it. And they are your accountability partner.

Quality #12. A Good Friend Sees You 

What I mean here is that a true friend sees you as you are: perfectly imperfect, imperfectly perfect, amazingness and warts. A true connection is an almost clairvoyant connection where a good friend seems to know what you need – without you saying anything or sometimes even when you didn’t know. 

It’s like a Spidey sense. They just show up at the right time and have the right words. 

They offer a sanctuary where you don’t feel uncomfortable being seen and heard. It’s a safe haven, and you can relax and know they genuinely love and care.

Quality #13. They Are Huggable 

This may sound bizarre, but a good friend should be huggable

I’m sure you’ve had some awkward hugs in your life from friends or distant family. These kinds of hugs are yucky

While you may not want to go hugging your bestie all the time, there are times when a hug just puts your soul back together and is what you need. A hug is a “I’m here for you, I feel you, I see you” message

It’s comfort and care and love

And if you and your friend are serial huggers, I say it’s a win-win. Why care what others think? You should live your life your way, and as long as you and your bestie are comfortable with how much and often you hug, then all’s right in the world.

Quality #14. They Have an Open Heart

This one ties back to #1 on my list, but it is also kind of separate. 

When you have a soul-to-soul connection with a good friend, you bare your soul, open your heart, and keep space for someone where they can leave parts of themselves (and know that you’ll keep those pieces safe and treasure them). 

Quality #15. You Can Have Deep, Soul-Filling Conversations 

With my besties, we cover the basics and surface level stuff. I want to know how they are, how their parents are doing, how their day went, and if my favorite tea is on a discount. 

But most of our conversations go so much deeper than that. We often have deep conversations about any topic that comes up. 

Nothing is really off limits because we know we are in a safe space, and we respect each other’s views. So, we can talk about politics, money, religion, the meaning of life and death, and stuff that’s seen as taboo. 

These are the kinds of conversations where you really get to know someone, and they are medicine for your soul.  

Quality #16. They Don’t Just Reach out When You’re Needed 

A toxic friend is someone who only reaches out when they need something from you. And when they do something for you, it is usually because they are playing you and buttering you up before they make their request.  

This kind of person isn’t any kind of friend

five qualities of true friendship | 6 qualities of a good friend | qualities of a good friend quotes
Your good friend may want to bubble wrap you and maybe knife anyone who doesn’t treat you right.

A real friend knows that friendship is a two-way street. They give and take, and you give and take. There’s reciprocity and balance, and even though the give and take isn’t 50-50 all the time, it equalizes so you never feel taken advantage of

You know when your good friend reaches out that it’s because they care about you and that you matter to them. You feel heard and valued – and your bestie puts your needs first (in a healthy way), knowing that you’ve got their back and prioritized their needs. They’ll rather want to give than take. This is how you know that you are safe with them. 

Quality #17. A Good Friend Is Genuinely Happy for You 

Life isn’t just about the moonlight, sunshine, and roses. It also has its darker sides. You may find that some friends are only ever around when things aren’t going so well for you. I mean, they’ll rather listen to you complain about stuff (and more likely, they’ll try to make their lives sound worse – like it’s some kind of competition). This isn’t a friend, by the way. 

And when you do share good news with these kinds of people (since we’ve established they aren’t friends and healthy for you), they undermine your success, they get jealous and petty, or they change the subject so quickly you don’t even know what hit you. 

On the other hand, a true friend will want to celebrate your every win and your every success, and they’ll be there for you, holding your hand, when times aren’t good. They won’t begrudge you

Your wins are their wins (because they want to see you happy and succeed in life). 

Final Thoughts on Qualities of a Good Friend 

It’s quite the list, right? And these qualities of a good friend outlined here isn’t an exhaustive list… but they are some of the most important

I can honestly say that my two good friends possess all of these qualities, and I’m very blessed to have them in my life. Does the person you consider to be your good friend also share all or most of these good friend qualities?  

If you want to read more about friendship and learn how to be a better friend, check out our 8-step process guide on how to be a good friend.

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Friends-having-a-good-conversation-qualities-of-a-good-friend

Jump to section

What are the qualities of a good friend?

How to spot a bad friend

The importance of good friends

How to find good friends

The tough part of friendship

The bottom line

What are the qualities of a good friend? You’ve probably had a lot of amazing — and not so amazing — friends over the years. Knowing what made the great ones stand out from the rest can help you choose the right friends going forward. 

Friendships make life more meaningful and are good for our health. Great friends offer emotional support and make us feel loved and connected. These are critical elements of our mental and social wellbeing. That’s why it’s so important to choose our friends wisely and treat them well. 

However, sometimes finding, or even being, a good friend can get tough. For many people, making friends as an adult already feels harder. We often don’t know where friendship will bloom. We have so many casual acquaintances to nurture but only so much time and energy.

Life is busy, and humans are easily distracted. In these moments, though, knowing the qualities of a good friend is even more important. We need support the most when work is stressful or personal problems are weighing us down. 

Whether you have too many best friends to count or are still looking for one or two, here’s everything you need to know about what makes a true friend and how to know which friendships are worth the investment.

Knowing the characteristics of a good friend can help you appreciate your current relationships and make new, meaningful connections.

Not every person you meet will become your new best friend. In fact, approaching meeting new people with an eye toward making a best friend is almost certainly going to create stress and possibly make people uncomfortable. A network of loose social connections is valuable to both your well-being and success, too. These loose friendly connections are what form a community. 

Many people in our lives will move somewhere along the spectrum between acquaintance and best friend. These different relationships are all important. Understanding where someone fits on your spectrum and differentiating what you expect from the relationship is helpful. However, anyone you call a friend should live up to certain standards if you are going to invest yourself in the friendship.

From casual acquaintances to “besties,” here are 11 qualities of a good friend:

1. They live with integrity

A friend with integrity acts in alignment with their values and commitments. They have strong moral principles, know the difference between right and wrong, and will speak or act when their principles are violated. They know themselves and behave and speak in ways that are consistent. Because of this, you can believe in them even when you disagree with them.

2. You can trust them

A close friend is honest and speaks from the heart with good intentions. They tell you what you need to hear in a way that you can hear rather than  gossip behind your back. A quality friend is trustworthy, not only are your secrets safe with them, but so are your vulnerability, fear, and weirdness.

3. “Dependability” is their middle name

Good friends show up, keep promises, do what they say they will do, and stand up for you. You don’t have time for fair-weather friends. That doesn’t mean a friend will be dependable across all dimensions — they aren’t superheroes any more than you are. A friend can make mistakes, but you have to feel you can rely on them in some core way. For example, I have a friend who is always late and overwhelmed, but I know that I can depend on her to listen to me talk and accept me unconditionally.

4. They’re loyal

Blind loyalty is never a good idea. But, if your friends have integrity, they’re likely loyal to the people they care about and who have been with them through ups and downs.

They don’t speak negatively about you, they listen to your side of the story, give you the benefit of the doubt, and they defend you when you deserve it.

5. They have empathy for others

A good friend has that amazing ability to put themselves in your shoes, otherwise known as empathy. They do their best to understand what you’re feeling and react accordingly.

6. They’re good listeners

Listening skills are essential for a good friend. If someone has the qualities of a good friend, they give you room to speak, ask questions, validate your emotions, and help you find perspective. Some friends are good at helping you see things in a new light.

7. Their confidence is contagious

This is an important trait for any friend. They are comfortable with themselves and comfortable with you. Real confidence will inspire you, draws you out, lends you courage when you don’t quite have it, and helps you feel confident to take on the world.

8. Spending time with them makes you feel good

Is this trait number 8? This could easily be #1. Otherwise, what’s the point? A great friend can have down days, but overall they have a positive mindset. Just being with them cheers you up when you feel down. The bottom line is that time with them should be something you look forward to.

9. You wonder how they’re not a professional comedian

Granted, this trait isn’t absolutely necessary. But a sense of humor is helpful. A friend doesn’t have to be professionally funny, just share a similar sense of humor to help you both find the lighter side when things get tough. They know how to hit your funny bone and appreciate your quirks. Someone who rolls their eyes at your jokes might not feel good to be around.

10. They’re non-judgmental

Real friends never make you feel bad for being yourself. With a good friend, you can come to the table as your true self.

11. They’re low-maintenance

No drama here. If you’re busy, they won’t hold it against you. And when you reconnect, it’s like no time has passed at all. 

If your friend has any or all of these qualities, remind them that they’re awesome. That kind of positivity helps keep relationships alive.

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How to spot a bad friend

Many red flags can alert you to a bad or fake friend. For the most part, you can look for the opposite of everything we mentioned above. But you should also watch out for these other toxic traits:

1. They constantly “one-up” you

They always make their issues seem more significant than yours. If you tell them about your bad day, they tell you how their day was worse. If you’re proud of an achievement, they’ll mention how they did it better.

This constant competition only invalidates your feelings, and good friends don’t do that.

2. They’re a bad influence

They encourage you to participate in risky behavior or activities that make you uncomfortable. If they don’t respect your boundaries, they’re not worth having in your life.

3. They bully and belittle you

Some “friends” only keep you around to make you feel bad. They want to feel better about themselves, so they take it out on you. Don’t let them.

The importance of good friends

It’s important to cut toxic people out of your life. This can be scary, but you have to create space for people with the qualities of a good friend to enter your life. 

Maybe you’ve known your toxic friends for a long time. You could be afraid of being alone. Neither are good enough reasons to keep people that don’t treat you well around. 

Friends-on-Vacation-qualities-of-a-good-friend

When you have good friends, your mental health will thank you. They’ll lift you up when times are tough, celebrate your wins, and help you feel whole. These people are out there — you just have to find them. It might take some work, but it is possible.

How to find good friends

Making new friends as an adult is difficult. Between work and other obligations, it’s hard to put yourself out there, but it’s worth it. 

Here are some tips for finding more positive and meaningful relationships:

1. Try new activities

Look for things to do that involve strangers. It’s especially a good idea to do things that you love — studies show that we seek friends who are similar to us. Who knows? A new best friend could be waiting for you at your next dance class.

Group-of-women-in-fitness-class-qualities-of-a-good-friend

Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Attend local events: A block party could be happening right around the corner. Or there could be a singles meetup at the local park. Don’t be afraid to go alone and strike up a conversation with someone. Chances are, they’re looking to meet people, too.
  • Volunteer: Find a cause that you’re passionate about and go help. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests as you.
  • Take up a new hobby: Try a new sport, take a class, or join some other kind of group activity. Many of these things have weekly meetups, so it’s a great way to get to know people.

2. Become your own best friend

Don’t depend on others for your happiness. Learn how to make yourself happy. Take yourself out on dates, see a movie by yourself, or plan a cozy night in. When you treat yourself with respect and love, others notice. It comes out as confidence and high self-esteem.

watching-a-movie-at-home-qualities-of-a-good-friend

3. Be a good friend to others

Remember, friendship is based on reciprocity. Make sure you embody all of the traits we listed above. Be a good friend to the people who deserve it and cut out those who don’t.

The tough part of friendship

True friendship isn’t always sunshine and roses. You might fight, fall out of touch, or be jealous of each other — all of which can put a strain on an otherwise great relationship.

ceramic-masters-have-fun-at-their-desk-qualities-of-a-good-friend

And sometimes, your friend’s decisions won’t make you happy. You might have to confront them about their poor romantic partner, take their car keys away while they’re drunk, or intervene if they’re behaving recklessly. These things aren’t easy, but they’re necessary if you want to be a good friend. 

You have to trust that your relationship can survive any rough patches through open and honest communication.

The bottom line

Building meaningful relationships takes work. It requires you to be vulnerable with others, be honest about how you feel, and step up for the people who need you. You’ll also have to trust your gut about cutting negative people from your life.

But remember: the struggle is worth it. Now that you know the qualities of a good friend, you can find people who will support you during hard times and help you feel more fulfilled. This will improve all aspects of your life.

And if you need help, BetterUp is here. We can help build your confidence, set personal relationship goals, and become a better friends. These skills will help you as you search for your people.

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Published May 16, 2022

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