Certain things are required for friends to allow their friendship to grow. You're probably aware that communication is essential, as is support when life throws challenges your way. But have you ever stopped to consider whether you're a good friend? What are the characteristics of a good friend?
Let's look at 10 of the most important qualities that most potential friends look for in a friend. and to determine whether you've been a good friend in previous relationships.
1. Honesty
Honesty is essential in any relationship. Your closest friends should be able to be open and honest with you without being judged, and vice versa. Depending on the situation, there should be some candor, such as when you have something stuck in your teeth or a price tag hanging off a new shirt. When it really counts, it's also about how you deliver that honesty in a way that respects your friend's feelings.
2. Trust
A relationship that exists only on a surface level hasn’t built up a solid foundation of trust,
one of the most important qualities of a good friendship.
A high level of trust is built up over time
and the two of you proving to each other that information can be shared without judgement. It’s also
important that you know you’re able to share things with your friend in confidence, and vice versa.
3. Generosity
This does not imply that you should give your friends a percentage of your earnings. Good friends, on the other hand, are generous with their time and feelings. You're there for a friend when they need you, even if it's just spending time with them or talking through a difficult situation. Generosity can also imply some self-sacrifice, because friendships grow when you make time for them to grow.
4. Loyalty
You are not required to agree with everything your friend says or does. Because the two of you became friends for a reason, a disagreement does not necessarily mean the end of a friendship. There is some loyalty there. Even if you haven't seen that friend in a long time, you can both pick up right where you left off when you're reunited. The link is always present.
5. Humor
A sense of humor and fun may not seem like the most important qualities in a friend, but friendship should be enjoyable. Even when times are tough, a friend should be there to lift your spirits, relieve tension, and even distract you from whatever is going on. Finding humor in silly things or similar things can also help you connect.
6. Dependability
Even when it is inconvenient, a good friend is dependable. You can rely on them in good and bad times, and you can call on them when you need them. They're dependable in stressful situations and quick to respond when you ask for a favor. That doesn't mean you should take advantage of their kindness. You give back by being a trustworthy friend yourself.
7. Empathy
Empathy, or the ability to understand where your friend is coming from and even share in their feelings, is an important component of good qualities in a friend. You don't have to relate to your friend on every level, but you must be able to be kind to your friend in times of difficulty.
8. Communication
It is not enough to be able to hold a conversation to have good communication skills. It's also about your listening abilities, which are perhaps even more important in a friendship. That is, when your friend is talking to you, you are not distracted or waiting for your turn to speak. You're paying attention to your friend so that when it's your turn again, you can contribute to the conversation.
9. Encouragement
When things get tough, be the friend who has an encouraging word to say instead of a negative reaction. When you need it, a good friend will push you out of your comfort zone. And when something amazing happens, a good friend is there to celebrate with you, because your success is, in some ways, their success, and they're your personal cheerleader.
10. Authenticity
A good friend is open about their feelings and comfortable being themselves around you. You should not have to worry about acting artificially or pretending to be someone you are not when you are with your closest friends because you have enough faith in them to know they will accept you for who you are. When you're with a close friend, you can be yourself and anticipate the same in return.
Now that you’re ready to be the best friend you can be, it’s time to find some friends that share all of these qualities. Evenly makes it easy to keep in touch with your friends and share your interests, and what you’re looking for in a friend. Download the app today!