Would I Be Friends With Me?

If you have been following Love What’s Next, you're hopefully getting more familiar with the "Six Pursuits to Love What’s Next". These six, key, life impacting, pursuits are the focus of all our Projects. If you aren’t familiar with them, follow the link to learn more. Love What’s Next Six Pursuits

Today’s blog post is inspired by our Humans Pursuit; Creating Lasting Relationships. As human beings, we are biologically programmed to create close bonds. We have a basic need to be connected with others and form strong relationships and it's proven we are happier, healthier and live longer when we have close relationships in our lives. In fact, studies show that 70% of our happiness comes from those healthy relationships.

So, today’s question is for each of us to look inward and ask ourselves, “Would I be friends with me?” Friends will come and go in our lives but the true friends are always there. Why?! 

In my reflection and research to uncover the top qualities of a true friend, I realized that there are many qualities that make up a good friend but there are 7 that really count…at least in my opinion. When reading through each quality, ask yourself, “Am I that friend?"

Top 7 Qualities of a True Friend

1. They make you WANT TO BE A BETTER PERSON
Friends aren’t just confidants, but role models. Through their example, their kindness and other special qualities, genuine friends bring out the best in us. They allow us to shine. 

2. They DON’T JUDGE you
We all do stupid things…it’s inevitable right?! Nobodies perfect. A true friend won’t judge you or make you feel bad but they will help you find a solution to fix the problem. They also won’t hesitate to call you out when you are wrong. They care enough to say something which can be really tough to do. 

3. They FORGIVE you 
A true friend is around to weather the storm. When conflict arises, instead of talking behind your back they come to you directly to work things out. 

4. They REALLY listen
Conversations will true friends are never one-sided. You can talk for hours and feel fulfilled. 

5. They GENUINELY CARE about what is happening in your life
True friends know what is happening in your life and are genuinely interested in what’s important to you. They celebrate your wins, and are a soft shoulder to lean on when you don’t. 

6. They TRUST
You can tell them anything and know it won't go any where. You always feel "safe" sharing your deepest, darkest feelings with them. 

7.  They SUPPORT you
A true friend is your biggest cheerleader. They always have your back and only want what’s best for you. When you decide to start a business, they're your first client. When you go back to school, they're your study partner. When you tell them you are moving away, they first cry with you, and then help you pack until the last box is on the truck. 

ARE YOU THAT FRIEND? 
Would you be friends with YOU?! If you are lucky enough to have one true friend, you are lucky enough. In our quest to love what’s next we can all strive to be that friend…seventy percent of your happiness depends on it! Choose to be that friend. Be a true friend on PURPOSE. 

​Embrace life and LOVE WHAT'S NEXT! 

If you are lucky enough to have a friend like this, comment below and tell us what makes her or him special!