7 Traits That Will Help You Make and Keep Friends ...

No one wants to constantly hear about how you’re never going to get a good job or car or boyfriend. It’s normal to complain to your friends occasionally, but it can’t get to the point where you hate everything about life. When others come to you for advice, they’ll want to be told that they can do whatever they set their mind to. It can be important to bring them back down to earth if their expectations are unrealistic, but don’t completely crush their dreams. Being positive can rub off on others and is one of the traits that will help you make friends.

Do you have a friend that you’re scared talk to about certain things? It stinks when you feel like you can’t tell a friend about your new crush because they’ll make fun of you or tell you to aim higher. It’s nice to have someone that you can tell anything to without feeling judged. When someone opens up to you about their life, be happy that they trust you. Never make them feel bad for feeling a certain way.

Everyone likes to gossip, but you never want it to be about you. People adore their trustworthy friends, because they’re able to tell them anything. Nothing is off limits, because they know that the secret won’t get out. Make others feel comfortable around you by refraining from spreading gossip. Don’t talk behind a pal or potential pal’s back.

Who wants to be around someone that’s easily angered and can’t take a joke? Lighthearted people are comfortable to be around. You don’t want to feel like you have to constantly tiptoe over someone’s feelings. A friend is someone that you’re meant to have fun with. If someone has such a short fuse that you can’t enjoy your time spent together, then what’s the point?

This one varies a bit from person to person. Some like to be bluntly told when their outfit clashes or hair is messy, while others would rather be left alone. The important thing is to be honest with the big issues. If a friend wants genuine advice on how to handle a situation, tell her what you think she should do. If her decision is biased for any reason, she’ll appreciate an outsider’s honest opinion.

If you promise someone that you’ll help them move, then do so. Don’t make a habit of backing out of plans at the last minute. We all do it, but it can be annoying. The other person might have been looking forward to your plans all week, only to be disappointed. If a friend needs you to be there for her, try your best to help her out.

There are super simple things that you can do that others will be thankful for. You can compliment someone’s outfit or personality. You can remember little things about them. You can tell them that something you saw made you think of them. Miniature moments and small smiles can go a long way.

When you’re trying to make more friends, try to show off your good qualities. What do you think is the most important trait that a friend should have? What do you think is the worst?