What are friends for life? What does that mean to you?

In today’s busy lifestyles it is important to have someone who is always on your side, listens to whatever it is you need to share, celebrates your wins and supports your losses, and can guide you in times of need. You need a friend, or even better, a few friends.

So what makes a good friend to you? Is it someone who is always around? Do you need someone to hold your hand when you are afraid? What is it you are looking for? Can you say that you have got someone like that in your life? Do you need lots of friends or is one enough?

Some friends come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. As you get older you learn to value some friendships and also the importance of letting go of others. The ones that you stick with you through the ages are the ones you must learn to nurture, appreciate and treasure. They will know and be there when you are going through tough times and share your achievements and good times.

It is just as important to realize that there are some friendships that have run its course and it is vital that you let them go. People move on, grow in different directions or move away. Friendships are a vital part of our lives and it is important to never feel obliged to be friends and keep friends. But never burn bridges along the way you never know when your paths may cross and you don’t want to be left speechless and uncomfortable. So to keep the friendship going we have put a few important tips together for you to take a look at.

Qualities of a good/solid friendship: 

Be positive, open and honest

Appreciate and accept each other for your differences.

Guide and support each other at all times.

Take a genuine interest in each other.

Build common interests, values and principles.

Have integrity, ie say what you mean and mean what you say.

Always have the other persons best interest at heart.

It should be a two-way street. There should be give and take.

Remember actions always speak louder than words.

Don’t live in each other's pockets.

Respect that you may take different paths.

Love what is.

Even this one: hold each other's hair back.

Learn to treasure and appreciate your good friends, they have your back, they lend support and are there to celebrate your life with you. Make every day a happy friendship day!