Our friends are our chosen family, so it’s important to choose wisely.
But what really makes a good friend?
And further, what are the glaring red flags that warn someoneisn’tactually a good friend at all?
11 qualities of a good friend:
You like being around them.
First things first: You will like being around atruly good friend.
Further, she adds, there will simply be a natural click with good friends.
They boost you up.
They’re there for you.
When the going gets tough, good friends get going.
They share in your happiness and pain.
They’re honest with you.
There’s a difference between being supportive andenabling certain behaviors.
you might be your truest self around them.
They’re emotionally mature.
They make time for you.
And as Leeds adds, good friends are also great listeners and skilled communicators.
you’re free to trust and be vulnerable with each other.
Quality friendships have a high degree of trust, openness, and vulnerability.
There’s an equal give and take.
They make you feel validated and seen.
Last but certainly not least, good friends will make you feel seen, understood, and validated.
5 signs of a bad friend:
They don’t respect you.
Mutual respect is a fundamental key to any healthy relationship, including friendships.
They’re a fair-weather friend.
But when you need them?
They’re nowhere to be found.
They’re manipulative.
Keep your eye out for excessive gossiping, as well.
They drag you down.
If good friends boost you up, bad friends tear you down.
They’re emotionally immature.
Emotional maturity is required to maintain any healthy relationship, and friendships are no exception.
