We have friends and are friends to others. Do you really understand the characteristics of a good friend and if we fit the label. There are two steps you can use in assessing if you have been a good friend – you can ask your friends or you can read this article to know if you have been doing a good job.
If the option you choose was the second one, check out 15 characteristics of a good friend and if you possess any of the stated qualities:
1. Trust
You should be able to share almost anything with your friend. If you don’t feel comfortable or free enough to share your secrets, fears and deepest thoughts with them, then you might want to x-ray the relationship. Why should you be able to trust a friend fully? Because you know that they won’t use your private information against you in the future.
2. Telepathy
A good fried should be able to read your mind before you even say anything. Ever noticed when married couples complete their sentences? It because most times they are best friends to each other. You should be able to know what each other are thinking without saying anything.
3. Independence
One trait of a good friend is that they do not solve all problems of their friend but instead they help to solve the problems. You should let your friend to be able to be stand independently on their own. It is not right when your friends always need your help when they face tough situations. The relationship can become toxic if your friends depend on you all the time.
4. Non-judgemental
How do you feel when you tell someone about your problems and they begin to tell you reasons why you are in this position because it was your fault. Being judgemental would only make your friend feel worse. You can be sure that they won’t be talking to you about their problems anymore.
When a friend talks to you about their problems, they are not looking for you to tell the about all the mistakes they have made or judge them. They just want you to support them.
5. Humor
You won’t find yourself lying on the floor, laughing out loud till you piss your pants just with anybody – this is one of the characteristics of a good friend. A good friends know exactly what to say to you would tickle your funny bone. You guys should have jokes that you two would only get.
If you and your friend are laughing at something that others might not find funny, that’s probably a good sign.
6. Honesty
As a friend you should be able to give your real opinions to your friend. Remember point 4? You can be honest with your friend without being judgemental. If your friend is about to make a decision that is life changing, you can give your opinion. Sometimes you can even disagree with their choices and it is okay to tell them. This most important is that everything should be done in love.
7. Selfless
A good friend would stick without you in both the good times and bad without expecting anything in return. A good friend is not conditional. When you are enjoying or having fun, they are they but when things are tough they disappear. If you are have a friend that disappears when you are sick or broke, they are usually not good friends.
You should also not be such a friend. If you notice that you behave in such a way, its time you change that habit.
8. Empathy
A good friend should be able to understand what you feel and emotions because they understand you and what are going though. They should be able to relate to you in such a deep way that they understand what you feel and going through.
9. Generosity
One of the characteristics of a good friend is that they are generous. Best friends should be able to share things freely amongst each other. You should be willing to share with the other person. I am not saying there are no boundaries in the relationship, but you gives are free with each other. You don’t keep a tab on who gives and takes more but there is free flow of care, love and sharing.
10. Encouragement
A good friend should always be there to encourage when you are feel sad or low. A good friends should serve as your hype man and personal cheerleader. There should always be ready to show you how great you are, give you reasons to be positive and remain optimistic.
11. Thoughtful
A good friend should always have you in their thoughts. It doesn’t matter how many miles are between you guys, the connection with your friends must always be there. Distance should not be a reason why you would abandon your friends.
With the rise of technology and social media, there are several mediums that you can use to keep communicating with your friends. Video calls from time to time is a very good option.
12. Positivity
There is nothing that is as terrible as being friends with a pessimist who only sees that bad things and never the positive things. Run away from bitter friends. Do not be a friend that only have sad things to say and nothing happy or fun.
13. Steadfastness
Your best friend should have your back at all time. You should know that no matter the situation, your friend would be there for you read to give a helping hand.
14. Good influence
As a good friend, you should have a positive influence on your friends. You shouldn’t be the kind of friend that only bring negative attributes to the table. Shun away from gossips, dishonesty, violent traits and also negative behaviors.
15. Present
Why would you call yourself a friend if you don’t like hanging out with them or never present when they need you. If you don’t like spending time with your friends, you should not expect them to feel the same way concerning. You have to show that you love being with them and enjoy their company.
After reading this article on characteristics of a good friend, are you one or nah?