How to Decide if Your Friend is a True Friend

If you're having trouble deciding whether your friend is a true friend, then your relationship is already on the rocks. Friends are a dime a dozen, but true friends are something far rarer, and far more rewarding. Luckily, they're also easy to spot.

True friends offer supportive comments and encouragement. Real friends make you feel needed, confident, and happy. Everyone needs a little positive energy here and there, and true friends have it in spades. Even when they disagree with you they still support you the best they can.

True friends listen to you. Sometimes all you need is for someone to shut up and listen. True friends know how to close their mouths and open their ears, as long as you can do the same from time to time. They make eye contact when talking, remember what you've told them, and ask thoughtful questions.

True friends make time for you. Life can be nuts, and it's hard enough to find time to sleep, work, and eat, let alone socialize. But a true friend will always make time for you. If they can't find the time to hang out or talk on the phone, then why are they even your friend?

True friends make you happy. It seems so simple and obvious, doesn't it? That's what makes it so important to remember. Plain and simple, true friends are those you're happy to be around. If you're less happy hanging out with your friend than you are when you're alone, then you might as well choose to be alone.

True friends keep away from the rumor mill. If your so-called friend is a big gossip, then it's likely that your friend is gossiping about you when you're not around. Everyone loves some fun gossip from time to time. But if you feel like your friend is always gossiping about someone or talking trash, chances are your "friend" will do the same as soon as your back is turned.