Three Characteristics of True Friendship
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “you are only as good as the company that you keep”. Our friendships say a lot about us- the people with whom we choose to spend our free time tend to mirror our own beliefs, hopes, and convictions. And, even if they don’t necessarily share our personal sentiments, they provide an unwavering support system. Personally, I am so incredibly grateful for the fantastic friends that I’ve made over the years. They have made and continue to make my life so incredibly rich and full of encouragement, laughter, and vivacity. But what makes a successful and healthy friendship? Where does friendship diverge from acquaintanceship? Below, we have aimed to answer those pressing questions by providing a few characteristics of long lasting and successful friendships:
#1: Unwavering support
True friends, much like a spouse, will stand with you throughout the good and the bad times that you experience. They will offer a non-judgmental listening ear when you need one, and thoughtful words of advice when you ask for them. They will celebrate your accomplishments with you and mourn your losses. They have seen you at your best and at your worst, and continue to love and appreciate you throughout it all. They are the people that you know you can call at any time, even if it’s just to say hello when you’re bored.
#2: Your friendship outlasts the tests of time and distance.
A real and lasting friendship will remain steadfast and strong despite the odds. For example, one of my very closest girlfriends and I go back all the way to highschool (and I won’t tell you how long ago that was). Are we different people than we were back then? Absolutely. We’ve lived across the world from each other (she studied abroad for a year). But yet, when we do have the opportunity to spend time with one another, we can always pick up where we left off.
#3: You can disagree.
Healthy friendships hit rocky points at times- this is normal. The key is that even during an argumen t, you can remain respectful and conscious of each other’s feelings and really listen to one another. Furthermore, you are able to be honest and open with that person about your feelings and know that they will be receptive to hearing what you need to say. And once you reach an agreement, you can move on and not hold onto resentment or hurt.