5 Ways to be a Great Friend to Your Best Friend

The more we age, the more we value those friendships that have survived the test of time.

What once was a group of twenty has dwindled and left behind are the ones that are fiercely loyal; you call them your tribe. Just like relationships, friendship can have a few bumps in the road and it’s important that you are doing your part to cultivate a lasting friendship. Be there for them like they are for you.  If you are looking for a few fresh ideas, here are 5 ways to be a great friend to your best friend.

Spend time with them: The best friends we have know what is going on in your life. They’re checking in with you, making time for you and purposefully connecting. Make yourself available and do your part to stay connected by freeing up your time. If it has been awhile go ahead and schedule that cup of coffee, you both will be so glad you did.

Lend an ear: First and foremost, be a good listener. There are times we all need to “let it out”. Be someone your bestie can call on to celebrate good news, share the bad and vent about work and life. Todays technology means less time we’re actually talking to people face to face, Be a connection that keeps them grounded and a sounding board for their life.

Practice honesty first: Don’t lie, ever! There’s never a good enough reason nor is it ever okay. A great friend is honest and trustworthy and someone you can take at their word. Give brutal truths with a kind word and from a place of genuine love and compassion for your friend; They deserve it and so do you.

Show up: To be a good friend you have to be present. Show up to the party; celebrate birthdays, promotions and accomplishments. Be a strength and presence during times of grief, loss or illness. This is the stuff that matters, show up for it. When you don’t, you’re the one missing out.

Be their biggest fan: Let them know how much you care, boost their confidence and go to bat for them when others are gossiping or trying to bring them down. Show them you value their friendship through your actions and words. Build them up when they’re down and share the good times and bad. Become a cheerleader for their goals and dreams. Everyone needs someone who’s one hundred percent in their corner; be that for them.

Do not underestimate the importance of a great friendship. If something comes up work hard to resolve it quickly and let it go whenever possible.  Be a great friend to your best friend and you’ll have a BFF for life!