13 Ways To Find Out What a True Friend Really Is

You can attribute it to social media, the internet, or any other factor, but it seems like friendship isn’t what it used to be. So how can you tell what a true friend really is these days?

We frequently witness friendships falling apart publicly on social media, with people who have known each other for years suddenly never speaking again over something trivial. It leaves us questioning what it means to have a true friend.

And what happened to the idea of having a best friend? These days, we’re unsure what a best friend even is because we often wonder if those around us are genuine or if they have hidden agendas.

The truth is, we all need friends.

You might think you can manage alone or just with your partner, but having friends in your life enriches everything. They provide support, bring joy, and there’s a special satisfaction in being there for them as well.

That doesn’t mean you need a large circle of friends; sometimes, just a few close ones are all you really need.

# Someone You Can Trust

A true friend is someone you can trust with your life. They’re your go-to person, the one who will always stand by your side and keep your secrets safe. This kind of loyalty is rare and incredibly valuable these days.

# A Great Listener

Friendship is a two-way street, but a true friend is someone who genuinely listens and understands not just your words, but also the things you leave unsaid. They know you so well that they can pick up on your body language, tone, and speech patterns to grasp the full picture. This level of understanding is a unique quality of a true friend.

# Always There When You Need Them

Whether it’s a crisis at 3 AM or just a tough day, a true friend will be there for you, even if it’s just a phone call away. While they may not always be physically present, they’ll drop everything when you truly need them, and you’d do the same for them.

# Someone Who Understands

A true friend isn’t close-minded. They respect your perspective, even if they don’t fully agree with it. True friendship involves being honest and calling each other out when necessary, always with the best intentions in mind. That’s what sets a real friend apart from a superficial one.

# Loyal Even When You’re Not Around

If someone speaks badly about you when you’re not around, your true friend will stand up for you. Loyalty is one of the most important traits in a friend, and it’s something a true friend will always show.

# You Talk ‘Just Because’

True friends don’t only reach out when they need something; they’ll call just because they enjoy your company. Whether you’re discussing something profound or simply chatting about nothing, the time spent together is always cherished.

# They Accept Your Imperfections

In a world obsessed with perfection, a true friend sees your flaws and loves you anyway. They understand that nobody’s perfect, and they value you for who you are, not for who they want you to be.

# Even When You Don’t Talk Often, They’re There

True friends don’t need to talk every day. Whether it’s a week or longer between conversations, it doesn’t matter. They understand that life happens, but they’ll always be there when it counts.

# You Share Laughter Over the Smallest Things

If you find yourselves laughing over the silliest things, that’s a sign of a strong bond. Those seemingly trivial moments are the glue that holds your friendship together, creating memories that are irreplaceable.

# They Stay Consistent Over Time

People change, but a true friend remains the same with you. Life may bring new challenges and priorities, but your friendship stays constant, always supportive, regardless of distance or time.

# They Never Judge or Belittle You

A true friend accepts you for who you are. They don’t judge your choices unless they believe you’re in danger. Instead of belittling you, they support and uplift you, helping to soften any falls along the way.

# Your Biggest Cheerleader

A true friend is always in your corner, cheering you on when you need it most. They encourage you to chase your dreams and are more than willing to be your practice audience for anything new you want to try.

# They Don’t Hold Your Mistakes Against You

Everyone makes mistakes, but a true friend forgives and forgets once an apology has been made. They won’t keep bringing up your past errors during disagreements. Instead, they focus on the positive aspects of who you are.