How to be a Good Friend
How to be a Good Friend
The thing I have learned about friendship is that the key is
not to have many friends but to have good, loyal friends. I’ve had many friendships in life. Some
have lasted a long, long time while others have only lasted a short time. I’ve learned a few things that help
friendships grow.
A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes
all the difference.”
Be Thoughtful
It’s not just about the big occasions, though it is
important to celebrate birthdays and the like. Good friends celebrate even when
there is no reason. Send a card,
even if your friend lives right down the street, offer to babysit or bring her
a cup of her favorite coffee before an early morning test. It’s the little
things that go a long way.
Meaningful text messages can brighten up a person’s day, especially if
it has been a tough one.
Sit on the Couch
You don’t have to do anything, not really. Friendships are built more in the being
and not so much in the doing. Some of my most memorable times have taken place
just sitting with a friend on a comfy couch with a cup of coffee or glass of
wine. It’s where deep
conversations and roll on the floor laugh fests have taken place. If you like the same TV show, go
over and watch every week. Don’t
be afraid to invite someone into your home, that’s where friendships are
formed.
Listen
Sometimes you need to be quiet and listen. Even if you don’t
want to hear the story, even if you have heard the story a dozen times before.
Just be quiet and really listen. Sometimes when a person repeats a story, there
is something else they are trying to say.
Don’t think about what you are going to say next. Listen.
Check yourself
Don’t be the person that only calls when you need someone.
No one likes to feel used and that is not the basis of any real friendship. You
know the people. You see their name light up on your phone and you want to
answer by saying “What do you want?”
Friends absolutely help each other, but if it is one sided or if all you
are doing is helping. That is not friendship. It’s free labor or counseling.
Also see how you feel after you’ve spent some time with your
friend. Do you feel exhausted? Do you feel ugly inside? Do you feel content or
happy? There were times when I’d go home from having dinner with a friend and
feel exhausted inside. It was because they had spent the whole night gossiping
or it just took too much effort. The key to being a good friend is surrounding
yourself with people who make you a better person. Distancing yourself from the
gossips, mean girls, and one-uppers will help you be better friends to your
true friends.
Value each other
You know those people you would call if someone in your
family died or you ended up in the hospital? Those people you would call if you
just got engaged or got a promotion? Those are your friends. Value them.
XOXO
Maryann B
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