Being A Good Friend

Everyone needs a good friend, are you a good one?

Friendship is something that we all need but many of us take for granted. The truth is that some of us form friendships easily and have lots of friends, whilst others don't form them that easily but when they do they can be strong and last for life.

But are you yourself a good friend? Here are some signs of people who are not the best friends:

- they only want to see you when they are bored and have nothing else to do

- when they have a boyfriend or girlfriend they suddenly disappear

- they will only tend to get in touch with you when they want something, like help with homework. Otherwise they won't get in touch with you

- they seem more interested in themselves than you

- they always talk about themselves

- if you are ill or something they won't come and visit you, they are only there in good times - a so-called fairweather friend

If you note any of these traits in yourself then it could be that you aren't being the best friend that you can be. Obviously we all have degrees of self interest but for genuine and good friendships it is important that you put the effort in and that you try to become more interested in your friends and listen to them and invest time - this way the friendship can get better and better.

Here are some general tips for a good friendship:

Honesty - always be honest with your friends. There are times where you might want to lie for one reason or another but normally as soon as you start telling lies things multiply and it can be hard to stop, also they can destroy a good friendship so try to always be honest.

The earlier you are honest also the better and easier it is and any problems will disappear, if you build them up then it can lead to a big bust up further down the line!

Time - One of the most valuable gifts we can ever give to others is our time, and with our friends we should try to never be too busy to see them or spend time with them even if just through a quick phone call catch up to see how they are. Try not to drift apart even if you are busy or working elsewhere it is important to try and keep in touch and put the effort in to your friendships.

Helpfulness - Try to be helpful with your friends and if they need some support, assistance or help be there for them and offer it. Therefore don't just turn a blind eye if they are in trouble or need your assistance, try to lend your time. People remember our acts of kindess and these things have a habit of coming back to you - if you are kind to someone chances are when the time is right and you need it, they will be there for you too.

Well those are some simple tips and advice on friendships and maintaining a good friendship - if you have any others let me know and I will add them here!

Being A Good Friend

Author: Stephanie

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Last Updated: Oct 31st 2006

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