9 Characteristics Of Good Friends That We Should All Know

There are a number of characteristics of good friends that we should all know about. Because in this type of alliances and social ties not everyone serves us. It is necessary to put filters, be selective and remind ourselves that, if life is two days, it is worth being surrounded by figures with authentic human quality, emotionally and intellectually nurturing people.

The playwright Tennessee Williams said that our existence is shaped by what we do and also by what we share with friends. This reminds us of the need to open the doors of our hearts to those companions with whom to trace vital meanings and give meaning to our days.

While it is true that there are relationships that expire and that sometimes soul friends are blown away by the wind and the progressive lack of harmony, new people always arrive. Knowing how to recognize who is worth it, the joy and the emotional investment that we will make with them is decisive. We analyze it.

Characteristics of good friends that you should know

Good friendships are found, but above all they are built on a day-to-day basis. Likewise, there is also another decisive fact. When we have this type of social ties, it is good to remember that the psychological tendon of reciprocity must be exercised daily, the classic “you give me-I give you”. Somehow, we are all very clear about what to ask a friend for.

However, let us not forget that we too must know how to give so that this relationship lasts and is authentic. Reciprocity is key. Likewise, while it is true that good friendships are a source of well-being and happiness, psychology has always been interested in knowing what defines authentic friends.

Research works, such as those carried out at the University of Miami, specify that good friendships should be virtuous, useful and pleasant, as Aristotle well indicated. This is how we obtain hedonic well-being (enjoyment) and eudaimonic well-being (human flourishing, happiness).

Now, when it comes to the characteristics of good friends, there are traits that act as real pillars for satisfaction. Keep in mind that it is also good to examine our dynamics in these types of relationships. Let us give to others what we ourselves demand from our friends.

1. They are people you can trust

Authentic friendship is sustained and forged on a decisive primary root: trust. If this dimension does not exist, that relationship does not serve us and is not authentic. Many times, we seek in these figures that daily refuge that we do not always obtain at the same level in family members or even in our partner.

It is essential to know that we will not be betrayed, that what is shared is confidential and that we will never be judged or criticized for what is said or expressed.

2- They appreciate and cultivate honesty

Honesty cannot be lacking among the characteristics of good friends. This exceptional virtue endows the person with a perfect combination of sincerity, honor, consideration, humility and authenticity so important in any relationship.

This behavior and attitude reveals the most beautiful people, those in whom it is worth depositing our affection.

3. They practice compassionate empathy

Many may say that the most important thing when making a friend is that he shows us empathy. However, be careful. Because sometimes even a narcissist can make us believe that they are empathic by acknowledging our emotions and feelings.

Because one thing is to feel and others to understand and act. Therefore, one of the characteristics of good friends is compassionate empathy. That is, let us always try to build links with people who connect with our emotions, understand them and act in tune to give us help, support …

4- They are loyal

Shakespeare said that loyalty is following someone until our last breath. It is not necessary to go to these extremes, but to demonstrate that firm commitment that is not collapsed by selfishness or hidden interests.

Loyalty is acting with fairness , respect, trustworthiness and commitment to our friends.

5. They know how to listen

It sounds easy, but not everyone really knows how to listen authentically. Most fall into the impulse to judge, reproach or contribute their point of view when what we sometimes want is just to be attended to.

Enriching friendships listen with their senses and heart and are also good at reading between the lines.

6. They are happy for your triumphs and are in bad times

Most of us love having friends with whom to spend good times, laugh, travel, enjoy … However, the greatness of people is perceived when they know how to be also in bad times.

Thus, another of the characteristics of good friends is knowing how to accompany sadness and also share our triumphs and happiness.

7. They strengthen self-esteem and help to be better

Research papers, such as those done at Columbia University, highlight the benefits of friendship. We could talk about its potential to save us from loneliness, to be daily support and to even improve our physical health.

However, it is important to highlight another crucial aspect. Good friends make us be a better person and value ourselves much more. These emotional figures nurture our self-esteem and enhance psychological well-being.

8. They have a sense of humor and common values.

We often make new friends by sharing common interests. However, the most significant and stable friendships, in addition to sharing those similar hobbies, are forged by defending the same values.

Finding someone who has the same life perspectives is always comforting. As well as spending time with that person and enjoying the laughter, the laughter… When the sense of humor and complicity flows between two or more people constantly, that bond is authentic.

9. They are not jealous: they do not need an “exclusivity” contract

Although it catches our attention, there are friendships as jealous as some relationships are. There are people who believe they have an exclusive contract. That is, they take it for granted that we belong to them and that we will only share time and experience with them.

Let’s avoid this type of presence. Because authentic friendship, like authentic love, does not put chains, but liberates and enriches. Let us therefore try to accompany us on the journey of life with figures capable of giving us light in every moment and circumstance.