HOW TO BE A FRIEND THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME

In our current world, finding people you can trust is not so easy, so it is essential to know how to be a good friend.

The truth is that we are all programmed for meaningful relationships. Studies even show that if you have good friends throughout your life, you have better chances of living longer.

But before you can have a good friend, you have to be a one as well; good things attract good things.

Below are some ways to be a good friend and the best part of this whole ordeal is the fact that if you are a good friend, your friends will learn to be better from you.

9 WAYS TO BE A GOOD FRIEND

1. Be Your True Self

Be as real as possible; nobody likes fake people or people who act. We are more comfortable around others who are comfortable in their skin. Just be yourself. Even though you aren’t perfect, the way you handle your strengths and faults with humility and confidence will permit other people to be real and relaxed with you. True friends are comfortable around each other

2. Learn To Keep Your Promises

A true friend will always keep their words and do what you say you’re going to do. Be reliable. No one wants to be friends with someone who isn’t truthful. And lies always have a way of exposing itself. Also, friends will tell one another the truth, even when it’s hard.

3. Be a Good Listener

Take a particular interest in the details of your friend’s life by being a good listener. Give your friend complete attention when they are talking to you or sharing something important with you, don’t be that person who texts or watches something while your friend is sharing valuable information with you. Most times, people just need someone to listen to them as they talk about their feelings. Be genuinely interested in their lives.

4. Create Time

Time is a vital factor when it comes to relationships. True friendship stands the test of time. Learn to stay with people, don’t just discard people, learn to be committed to people. Your time is one of the greatest gifts you can give to anyone.

5. Learn To Keep Secrets

Prove yourself to be someone who can be trusted. Be that person who will guard take your friends secrets with you to the grave. A great way to prove you can be trusted is to be free to share some of your secrets with your friend.

6. Be Encouraging

Everyone needs encouragement. Find specific ways to encourage your friend. Even amid their difficulties, show them what you see to be particular about them and be willing to help them up when they are depressed or feel like life is pulling them from all sides.

7.  Be Loyal and Committed

True love is seen in loyalty and commitment. True friendship entails that you stay with your friend even when your friend makes a mistake. Be there for them in their sad and happy moments. Be there to laugh with them, cry with them. Don’t just talk about being there for them, do it! Actions speak louder than words when it comes to commitment.

8.  Always Be Willing To Settle Disputes

Relationships aren’t always a smooth ride; you will surely meet bumps along the way. Prove to your friend that you are willing to work through hard times of misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Most times, friendships grow stronger through negative times. Don’t discard people just because of difficulties.

9.  Look Out For Your Friend

Don’t be that friend who just watches as his/her friend falls into a ditch. True friendship is found in the correction. When you see your friend getting in something negative it may be drugs or alcohol,  a toxic relationship, be bold enough to step in and protect your friend and point out these dangers.

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