Introduction:
Hi, I’m Max – Relationship Coach.
Friendships can often begin from convenience or mutual interests—whether through shared activities or proximity, which poses the question, what truly sets apart great friendships? What defines a bond that stands the test of time and personal evolution? Have you noticed that some people can stay friends for 40 years, how does this happen?
Today’s reading will dive into three key markers of deep, meaningful friendships that go beyond surface-level connections and help foster lasting bonds.
1) True Friends Honour Your Journey
A true friend recognizes that you are on your own path, with your unique experiences, lessons, and challenges. They don’t try to impose their perspective on you or steer your life according to their biases. Instead, they offer support and space for you to evolve. Their contributions are well-timed, never overbearing, and born out of respect for where you are at any given moment. This doesn’t mean they don’t offer alternative perspectives, but when they do, it’s with careful thought and understanding, not judgment or ego. They celebrate your individuality and encourage your growth, even when your path diverges from theirs.
2) True Friends Are Truly Happy for Your Success
A hallmark of a true friendship is the absence of jealousy. When you succeed, your friend doesn’t feel threatened or engage in one-upmanship. They celebrate your victories as if they were their own. This is an important marker because it reveals the strength of the friendship—true friends are secure enough in themselves to wholeheartedly celebrate your achievements. It’s not about competition; it’s about shared joy. When someone genuinely wants the best for you, it reflects their maturity and emotional security, signaling that your friendship is built on a solid foundation of mutual respect and support.
3) True Friends Are Born Out Of True Connection, Not Mutual Interest
Many friendships are circumstantial—built on convenience, shared environments, or similar interests, as we shared at the beginning of today’s reading. But true friendship transcends these situational factors. It survives the inevitable changes in life—whether it’s a change in job, location, or interests. This type of friendship requires effort, just like an intimate relationship. True connection doesn’t rely solely on convenience but is fostered through dedication and mutual care. If a friendship struggles to endure changing circumstances, it may have been built on shaky ground. Lasting friendships, however, are those where both parties are willing to fight for the connection, continuously choosing each other despite life’s changes.
Conclusion:
Friendship, like any relationship, requires effort, dedication, and a commitment to nurturing the bond. If you find your friendships faltering, start by examining your own actions. When you change how you show up, your friends will often follow suit, and if they don’t, that shows you something in itself. Invest in the friendships that matter most and watch them deepen into something truly powerful.
If today’s reading resonated with you, reach out to me for a 30 minute complimentary conversation here.
Max. Relationship Coach.
