If pondering on what is the most blessed part of your life, a good friend is high on the list. But, “what traits make a good friend?” With all the people you meet in a lifetime, what makes one person so special and different from the rest? Another important question is, “Do I know how to be a good friend?”
You know you’ve met a good friend to keep for a lifetime when you see these characteristics:
- F – Faithful
- R – Reliable
- I – Interesting and Interested
- E – Enjoyable
- N – Nurturing
- D – Devoted
Faithful
The strength of a good relationship is knowing you have someone by your side when things get tough. Realizing that there is one person who will always be there for you allows for a form of security. You can relax with a good friend knowing that you will not be betrayed, knowing they care, and they have your best interest at heart.
Reliable
A good friend means what they say and says what they mean even when there is an issue. You can rely on them being consistently honest, even if the situation is awkward. Relationships need boundaries that develop bonds. Having a good friend that respects those boundaries adds depth to the friendship.
Source: ShutterstockInteresting and Interested
Having a common interest is the fun part of a good friendship. We all need a playmate to share our passions that lead to exciting conversations and adventures. Sometimes we just need to vent or have a shoulder to cry on. A good friend shares your interests and is interested in learning your passions.
Enjoyable
Once in a while, you find a person that is easy to be with. This person enhances your life. Conversations flow and are often exciting. You find that this person sees life much the same as you do while sharing differences without conflict. You look forward to spending time and having fun with this person.
Nurturing
Life can throw you a curve from time to time. Having someone willing to offer support during those periods not only without judgment, but also steps up to bolster you is the sign of a good friend.
Source: ShutterstockAs you share these experiences, the bond of this type of relationship grows more profound as does the intimacy.
Devoted
Solid relationships take time to develop. You know that you have a good friend if they stick with you in both the good times as well as the rough patches. You will not always agree, and there will be times that anger or strife can occur, but a good friend will want to heal the wound so the relationship can continue.
A solid friendship requires that both parties have a shared mutual respect. Each person has individual needs, dreams, faults, choices, and boundaries. By identifying and respecting these differences, deep and long term friendships can develop. Honesty also plays a significant role in keeping the bond strong. Keep your “Good Friend Radar” alert for these exceptional relationships. Those friendships only develop naturally and are precious when they occur.
