How to Be a Good Friend

Learning how to be a good friend is one of the most valuable things you will ever learn in life. I never had an overwhelming amount of friends; more like a small circle. It wasn't that I was shy. I'm actually very outgoing and lots of fun to be around. Since then, I've learned important principles which expanded my circle of friends. I discovered, no matter how cool your personality is, you must also have the essential qualities of a good friend to attract more friends!

Here are some of the most valuable tips I've discovered on how to be a good friend.

1. Do what you say you're going to do.
Friendship isn't only about fun; people want a friend they can count on during a crisis. For instance, my sister is a really fun person, but she often shows up late to scheduled plans or changes her mind and never comes! Her indecisive nature gets annoying and overshadows her fun personality. (What if there was a special one-time event coming to town? I invite my sister. If she backs out at the last minute, I don't get to go either! Unless I want to go alone.) Not following through with your commitments ruins others plans and affects other lives besides your own.

Here is how you can start following through on your commitments: Get creative! If you already committed to something, figure out a way to make it work. Hair not washed? Plans to be at a friend's house in thirty minutes? Throw on a cute hat. Made a life commitment but having second thoughts? Talk to your friend whom you made the commitment with. Stay committed while you talk and think about a solution; don't just act. You would be surprised at what you can come up with! Agreed to move in with your boyfriend against your beliefs? Go ahead and move in with him, but live in a separate bedroom. A friendship arrangement!

2. Be honest with yourself.
Is your friend an serious coffee drinker? Don't worry if you only like to drink tea. Don't pretend to be a fan of something if you really aren't! Friendships are often formed as a result of common interests. The best way to build a strong long-lasting friendship is be honest about who you are and what your interests are! Be honest about how much you like tea. You may meet someone who knows of a quaint little spot for an afternoon cup of tea!

3. Be Understanding.
If your friend is going through a difficult life situation, take the time to listen. Let them cry, talk, or yell. Let them know you care about them. If your friend is acting in a way which is hurtful towards you, seek to understand their situation rather than getting angry. You will find there is usually a good reason for their attitude.

4. Treat your friend the way you want to be treated.
Before taking any action, consider how you would feel if something acted that way towards you. See things from someone else's perspective. Doing this will keep you from doing and saying things you regret.

5. Don't take generosity for granted.
Did your friend do something thoughtful for you? Reciprocate when you have the opportunity; people who give thoughtful gifts usually enjoy receiving them! How would you feel if your friend let you pay for them every single time you went out? I'm guessing you would start to feel resentful! It is a blessing to treat someone to something; giving makes you feel good inside. But doing it all the time would be a drag.

Use these tips and you will have friends around you even during your most pathetic hour. Learn how to be a good friend and life will always be worth living!