Five Characteristics of a True Friend

My 40-year-old self was having tea by herself one day, then realized that she does not have a lot of people that she can call FRIENDS. I live in what you would call a tiny bubble, a very small entourage of people that I can trust, laugh with, and cry with. We don’t always share the same views, but we love and respect each other. But in a circle of 5 or 7 friends, you will always find one that you are more comfortable with, one who understands you better. And that one is the one who is more like you. For example, my best friend from high school was once my business partner, she is my son’s godmother, and she is the only person on this planet who knows more about me than the woman who gave birth to me. The reason is because we know we can count on each other. And no matter how hard things get, we will always have each other’s back. True friendship should be built on trust and respect. The person you call your friend should be like a sister or brother to you. They should be there for you when you need them. They should be a rock to stand on, and a force that guides us.

A true friend…….……..

1. Won’t try to change who you are

2. Believes in you and wants the best for you

Somebody who is jealous of your accomplishments is not your friend. A true friend believes in what you can achieve and pushes you toward your goal. They support you and want what’s best for you.

3. Tells you the truth and listens to you

Nothing hurts more than the truth. Oftentimes, we ask questions when we are not even ready to  hear the answers. But sometimes it’s good to have someone who is brave enough to tell you when you are messing up. Someone who can tell you when your jeans don’t look good on you or when you are messing up a good relationship.

4.  Is always there for you 

You don’t need a friend who is only there when things are good. A true friend should also be there for you when things are bad. Sometimes all you need is just for your friend to show up and be by your side. A true friend should be able to do that.

5. Enjoys your company and laughs with you 

We all have our issues. There are times when you will argue or don’t agree with each other. But even in those situations, a true friend should bring the best out of you, not the worse. A true friend should make you laugh and comfort you when you are in pain. You should feel silly and playful when you are around them, not the other way around. It’s like Mark Twain said, “Grief can take care of itself, but to get the full value of a joy, you must have somebody to divide it with.”