How to be a Better Friend

“The friend in my adversity I shall always cherish most. I can better trust those who helped to relieve the gloom of my dark hours than those who are so ready to enjoy with me the sunshine of my prosperity.

Ulysses S. Grant

When the chips are down and shadows loom, it's true friends who reveal themselves. Those whose hands reach out to help me in my hardship will always be remembered above those eager to bask in good times alongside me.

Take a moment to invest in your friendships - it may be the best decision you make all day! Evaluate what kind of friend you are and determine how much value each person brings into your life. Are there any areas where could use improvement? Identify those relationships that bring trust, joy or both; don't settle for less than great when it comes to being with friends. Put effort into becoming an even better companion and watch as quality bonds take shape around you!

Use these strategies to be a better friend:

Friendships involve more than being open-minded and listening; it is also about understanding one another. We should strive to put our phones away, so we can focus on the present moment with our friends when they need us most. It takes effort to be compassionate and sensitive - qualities that help foster strong relationships built off of mutual trust and support. So, take a breath before responding in conversations or conflicts – your friend will appreciate your willingness to empathize!

Forge a bond with your closest friends by taking time to be together and doing something special. Show them appreciation for all that they do in meaningful ways - from verbal compliments to aiding their ambitions! A little help goes a long way towards fulfilling dreams, so don't forget about the ones you care about most when it comes time for support.

Cultivate relationships with your friends to keep them alive and well - make sure you see each other more regularly so that neither of you forget about one another. Show support for their partners, families and wider social circles; be the kind of person they can depend on when it comes to sensitive information or secrets! How would you feel if a friend revealed something confidential, even though asked not to? Make sure those around you know that confidences are safe in your hands.

Being an excellent friend requires dedication and hard work, but it can be hugely rewarding. Taking the time to treat your friends with thoughtfulness will have positive benefits all around--not only for them, but even more importantly, yourself!

Apologizing when you make a mistake is essential in any relationship; showing humility shows just how much you truly care about the people that matter most in your life.

Make sure each week brings new opportunities where you strive to become a better person who has great relationships built on trust and understanding.

Friendship is a bond of two,
A union as grand as the sky's hue.
Sharing joys and sorrows alike,
Together singing life's song in spite.
No matter where you go or what you do -
Your pal will be right there next to you!