What It Takes to be a True Friend: 20 Signs of Strong and Lasting Friendship

Friendship is one of the most valuable gifts we can have in this life. It brings us compassion, courage, and trust, and helps us get through the highs and lows of life. However, it can be hard to know who your true friends are and whether your bonds will stand the test of time. In this article, we will explore the 20 signs that show what it takes to be a true friend.

1. Honesty

One of the most valuable and desirable traits in a friend is honesty. A true friend will not hesitate to tell you the truth, even if it is not something you want to hear. You can always count on them to give you the best advice, even if it is tough love.

2. Selflessness

A true friend is someone who will go the extra mile for you, without expecting anything in return. They will offer their help and support, no matter how big or small the problem is. When you feel down or stressed, they will offer their time and attention to cheer you up.

3. Interest in Their Lives

You are genuinely concerned about what is happening in your friend’s life. You ask them about their day, even the smallest details like what they had for breakfast. You notice their moods and observe when things are off in their life.

4. Protective

Strong friendship comes with a critical perspective of any person who comes into their lives. You always want the best for them, and you act as a shield for them when they are about to enter into any relationship.

5. No Boundaries

There are no boundaries or limitations in true friendship. You are willing to stay up late for them, travel a thousand miles or do whatever it takes to provide something for them whenever they need your help.

6. No Secrets

Friendship is built on trust, and there are no secrets between you and your best friend. You can share your deepest thoughts and feelings without worrying about judgment or rejection.

7. Consistent Communication

Even if you live miles apart, a true friend keeps the communication line open. You text, call, email, and make sure you are in touch with your friends at all times.

8. Quick Resolution of Disagreements

Strong friendship does not mean that you always agree with what your friend has to say. You can work out your differences and resolve whatever arguments you may have. You know that your relationship is bigger than your disagreement.

9. Missing Each Other

Missing one another only shows how much the other matters and is relevant to your world. You cannot help but wish that they were around when they are gone for a day, a week or even longer.

10. Making Each Other Laugh

Life can be stressful, but friends can add value to your happiness by making the other person laugh. You don’t have to try too hard or be too serious, just telling a joke or calling them by their nickname is enough to ignite a smile.

11. No Time Lost

When a friend comes back after a time away, it is like they never left. You pick up where you left off, and you can still connect on a deeper level no matter how long you have been apart.

12. Knowing Each Other’s Soft Spots

We all have soft spots. And in true friendship, you know their soft spots enough to make them light up in a distressing time. You understand them instantly and can bring out a brighter person in a difficult time.

13. Thrilling Moments

Thrilling moments bond us in friendship, and it is these moments that we can always look back on and smile. Memories of times spent doing fun and exciting things together create an unbreakable bond.

14. Similar Interests

Shared interests are important in friendship, and if you enjoy the same things, you will always be excited about spending time together. Even a night in watching a movie or playing board games can be a great bonding experience.

15. Authenticity

You can’t pretend around your true friends. You feel comfortable being yourself and allow yourself to be vulnerable in their presence. Farting or making silly faces around them makes you feel real, not like some poster friend.

16. Incompleteness

Going to a special event or wedding function without your friends makes you feel like you are missing something. Life is just not complete without them, and you realize this more and more the longer you are friends.

17. Covering Up

True friendship means being there for each other, no matter what. If they take questionable or stupid actions, you stand by them and quickly cover up for them without thinking twice.

18. Always Talking

There is never a period of silence in true friendship. There is always something to talk about, and you can engage in a conversation with ease.

19. Dirty Details

True friends know all the dirty details of each other’s lives. From terrible selfies to unpopular crushes, you know the dirtiest secrets and are the most reliable friend to keep them.

20. Consistent Support

A true friend will always stand by you, even when it is not convenient for them. They will be a consistent friend through thick and thin, always seeing you through the difficult times.

In conclusion, true friendship is built on honesty, selflessness, interest in each other’s life, and consistent communication. It is about covering up for each other when necessary, working through disputes and keeping no secrets. But above all, true friendship is about consistency and being there for each other, no matter what.