Relationships: Characteristics of a Friend
What Is a Friend?
- A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be.
- A friend is a living treasure, and if you have one, you have one of the most valuable gifts in life.
- A friend is one who will always be beside you, through all the laughter, and through each and every tear.
- A friend is the one thing you can always rely on; the someone you can always open up to; the one person who always believes in you in a way that no one else seems to.
- A friend is a sanctuary.
- A friend is a smile.
- A friend is a hand that is always holding yours, no matter where you are, no matter how close or far apart you may be.
- A friend is someone who is always there and will always-always-care.
- A friend is a feeling of forever in the heart.
- A friend is the one door that is always open.
- A friend is the one to whom you can give your key.
- A friend is one of the nicest things you can have, and one of the best things you can be.
– Collin McCarty
There are certain qualities in friends that truly stand out more than others. Some of those characteristics are hard to find while others are more common. What type of friend are you to others? Do you stand out and have all or at least some of these characteristics above?
We are not called to be perfect every moment of each day, however, we should be reflecting qualities of positive characteristics in our lives. We should be walking life with others. Be real and sharing. Let’s make sure we are investing in developing good character in ourselves and lasting friendships in our lives.
(Part II) Making Your Commitments – Well Done
Every day we makes choices on how to spend our time and energy. It is important to the people in our lives that we follow through with the commitments we make both personally and professionally. Great satisfaction comes from a job that is done well and wonderful feedback is given when a relationship is built on quality characteristics. We all have vital roles in life and you will make a huge impact on the people your life touches. The question is will your impact be positive one for the people in your life? What are some of the common the characteristics of people who keep their commitments to others:- Integrity – adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character (Dictionary.com) Someone who does the right thing no matter what especially when they make a mistake or miss a deadline. Take responsibility for your actions.
- Honesty – whether it is someone in your personal or professional life you will quickly learn who do and those who do not tell the truth. The truth can sting and be hurtful, however, it is the best way to handle any situation. You can try to cover something up but eventually the truth will be revealed. Make sure to always speak the truth in love. Be honest today in your relationships.
- Dependable – do what you say you will do and be where you say you will be. Be punctual as much as possible. A dependable person demonstrates to others that they are valuable and their time is appreciated. When you tell a friend you are coming, it’s pretty simple…..come. Unforeseeable things can happen and if that is the case contact them as soon as possible. Be considerate of the person who is expecting to see you or receive something from you.
- Trustworthy – when someone shares with you they are opening up their hearts and minds to you. Whether it is a client you are helping complete a project or a friend going through a tough time. Listen and help. If someone shares with you in confidence it simply must remain in confidence. When you make a promise follow through. It takes work to build healthy relationships with the people in your life.
We all desire to be appreciated and know who we can trust to be honest, trustworthy, and dependable. It is important to have people in your life you can count on to come through for you both personally and professionally. Life is short and we need the positive impacts in our lives. Take time to evaluate the characteristics that shine through in your life to your family, friends, business partners, etc… Make sure you have commitments that are – well done. What are some positive characteristics you have that help you build positive relationships and keep your commitments? Do you have areas you need to improve in as well?
