Do you have a true friend? You know, someone who you rely on and can’t live without? Some people are blessed with childhood friends who become friends for life. A friend isn’t someone who just agrees with you all the time – they live life with you. Here are 10 things that true friends do differently.
#10. True Friends Listen
True friends listen to you and don’t jump to conclusions when things seem to be falling apart in life. They genuinely hear every word and don’t start judging you. Whether you are slightly negative, fearful or overjoyed, a true friend feels what you feel and knows when you need a hug or a celebratory dinner.
#9. True Friends Call
True friends call when they haven’t heard from you in a while. Life can drift two people apart, but true friends know when it’s time to at least chat on the phone for a few minutes. Is there a reason why you are withdrawn or becoming out of balance? A best friend helps you through it and doesn’t give up on you!
#8. True Friends Make Time
True friends make time for one another. All adults are busy, so this is not an excuse! If the friendship is worth it, you will find time to get together – Saturday morning coffee, play date at the park, quick hello between classes. Spending time doesn’t require extensive planning, but a nice weekend away for shopping, dining out and lying on the beach is also nice!
#7. True Friends are Honest
True friends are honest. This may seem common, but you can quickly tell when a “friend” isn’t being honest with you. They are honest in a loving way and through this you grow in unexpected areas. Not only do they tell you the honest truth about the things that are hard to hear, they are truthful about the little things too.
#6 True Friends Sacrifice
True friends make sacrifices for each other. Would you rearrange your schedule so you can babysit for your friend or help them shop for an upcoming job interview? If a friend reaches out for help, make time for them! Life is full of unexpected events and having people in your life who sacrifice their time and money when you are in need is critical.
#5 True Friends Talk Out Problems
True friends talk out their problems. This is what bonds you together and helps your friendship to grow and last. You will get mad at each other and drive each other crazy, but you do this because you are friends. True friends don’t agree on everything, but won’t let the small things get in the way.
#4. True Friends Accept Each Other
True friends accept each other. Are you the messy friend or the organized friend? Does your best friend seem to always run late or burn dinner? This makes them unique and accepting their imperfections will bring you closer together. When you are accepted, you are free to reach your full potential.
#3. True Friends Compromise
True friends understand how to compromise. A big part of this is listening to one another and making adjustments. Maybe you support your friend by going to an early exercise class and they take part in your spontaneous pool party. Doing life together is what matters most!
#2. True Friends Dream
True friends encourage each other to dream. Responsibility is inevitable as you become older and dreams often get put on hold for everyday life activities. Be a good friend and show your best friend that their dreams can happen. Show your support and help them amaze themselves at what they can accomplish.
#1. True Friends Understand Committed
True friends are committed and follow through on their promises. We all need support and if you are not willing to make commitments and show that your word is good, you can’t expect your friendship to grow. Don’t hastily commit to watering plants while they are on vacation or making them dinner if you haven’t thought about how you will carry this out.
True friends are rare to find and many people realize how little they have in common with childhood friends as they grow up. If you want to develop lasting relationships, focus on becoming a true friend! Show that you are thoughtful, accepting and supportive. Focus on serving others and God will bring the right people into your life. Don’t judge people at first sight, because experiences and lifestyles help bond people.
Article by Elise Cleary
I am a Christian writer and editor that lives in northern Michigan and thoroughly enjoy music, movies, TV shows, books and other entertainment with a Christian focus. My favorite song is "Oceans" by Hillsong United because it reminds me that has big plans for me and everyone else who puts their trust in Him. There are many movies that have impacted my life, but a few include God's Not Dead, The Shunning and Letters to God. I also write for www.faithandentertainment.com and love connecting with readers, so please don't hesitate to contact me! When I'm not writing I enjoy watching movies and laughing with my busy toddler and husband.
