Over the past year and a half I have learned the hard way about what makes a good friend and what does not.
I have definitely learned how to be a better friend myself after being betrayed by several so-called good friends.
I’ve also learned that you don’t need a lot of friends in your life, just a few really good ones who you trust and who have your back.
I used to always think that having a large friend circle was a really great thing and as a result, I was always too trusting and welcoming of people. I wound up letting people in my life who never should have been there and ignoring red flags from others.
They also say you are the company you keep, and I noticed some bad habits from one “friend” in particular who was beyond a mean girl and troublemaker. I finally cut her out of my life, and I was able to remove so much unnecessary drama around me.
Here is a list of qualities that I think are important to look for in a friend at any age. (When you find friends like these, hang onto them.) I also hope this list also inspires you to be a better friend too.
- Friends are honest with each other, but not judgmental or unkind.
- Friends have each other’s backs.
- Friends support one another in their efforts to achieve their personal and professional goals.
- Friends do not take advantage of each other or disrespect each other.
- Friends make time for each other.
- Friends disagree, but they do not undermine, purposely hurt or embarrass each other.
- Friends protect and respect each other’s boundaries, and have each other’s backs.
- Friends don’t gossip about each other and if they hear gossip about you, they’ll stop it.
Remember that there is always an opportunity to become a better person and a better friend, so if you ever feel like you’re not being a great friend, start today.