by JS Daniel

Created on: August 03, 2009

Good friends are an important aspect of our lives. They are there when we need them. Just the joy of being with them brings happiness to our lives. But to sustain that relationship we need to be a good friend. It's nice to be surrounded by your friends but being a good friend is also important. Here are some tips that can help you achieve that.

Be there for your friends. Stand up for them when needed. Lend them you shoulder when they need to cry. Make them laugh and feel good when they are down. Never give up on your friends. Share their burden when it's too heavy. Just being with them when they really need you strengths the bond you share.

Learn to keep secrets.When a friend shares something with you don't tell it to others, no matter how small a matter it may be. They trust you when they say secrets so respect that trust. If they get to know you are spreading it around it will break their hearts. Even if a day comes where you are no longer friends bury those secrets. A good friend will never let his or her friends down in front of others.

Learn to forgive and forget. No matter how heated arguments get or how many disagreements you have, learn to forget them and keep going. Forgive them if they do something and are truly apologetic about it. Never judge them on their past actions.

Support your friends on the things they do but when they are not doing the right things be bold enough to speak the truth. Do not let them take the wrong turn no matter how hard they try. A good friend does not stand for bad things.

Do not be dominant or demanding. This could suffocate your friendship. Treat your friends that way you would like to be treated. Respect them and their suggestions. Don't run the show according to your ideas and expectations. They will feel neglected and disrespected.

Listen to what your friends have to say. Lend them an ear in times of need. Don't be the one speaking all the time. Do not interrupt to say things when your friend is saying something important. Analyze what they are saying and offer assistance and help when needed.

Let your friends grow in their dreams and you grow in yours. Everybody has their own desires. So don't block their way. A good friend knows when to let go. Feel happy for your friends when they succeed. Compliment and encourage them.

No matter how far you may be make sure you write or email each other. Take time and respond to your friends mail. Try to meet each other whenever possible.

Some friends last a life time. So choose carefully and maintain the friendship. Do not lose your friends because you are not a good friend!

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