Friendships make the world go round.
It’s your besties who have the power to lift you up when you’re feeling down and inspire you to be the very best version of yourself possible.
While no two friendships are ever alike, we can all benefit from remembering these important things about them.
Keep scrolling for a little refresher course on friendship!
Friends Fight
You’re going to get into altercations with your friends. It’s inevitable. Some of them will be over stupid little things like them bragging about how they did better than you on a math test. Others will be about tougher subject matters, like her starting a rumor about you. No matter how tight your bond may be, you’ll get into an argument. Just remember that one fight isn’t the end-all of your friendship. If you communicate openly, the two of you will get over this little speed bump, no matter how rough it may be.
(Pretty Little Liars via Freeform)
Growing Apart Is Okay
We all had best friends when we were younger who we don’t talk to at all now. Why? Because people change and can outgrow each other. When you notice your friendship starting to drift apart, ask if this really is for the better. Maybe the two of you haven’t been seeing eye-to-eye lately or you find them annoying every time you hang out together. And if it’s a matter of them not supporting you, know it’s more than okay to drop them. Friends should always support friends. You don’t need someone in your life if they aren’t going to be there for you through thick and thin.
Never Compare Yourself to Your Friends
We cannot stress this enough: You are not your friends. You are your own unique person who is incredible for a numerous amount of reasons. Just because one of your friends is smarter than you or more athletic than you, doesn’t make you any less of a person. Their success is not your failure.
(Pretty Little Liars via Freeform)
Make New Friends, But Keep the Old
As you grow older and start taking interest in different activities, you’re going to make tons of new friends. This doesn’t mean that you have to kick your top-notch bestie to the curb. Feel free to integrate them into your new set of friends. If that doesn’t work, know that it’s totally fine to hang out with them on separate occasions.
Spending Every Waking Moment Together Isn’t Necessary
Regularly spending time with your friends is tons of fun, but you don’t need to be by their side every second of every day. Take some time for yourself every now and then. Everyone can benefit from some much-needed alone time. It’ll leave you feeling refreshed and recharged. Plus, you’ll be that much more excited to see your besties the next time you all get together.
(Pretty Little Liars via Freeform)
Effort Is Required
As with any relationship, you have to be present. If you expect your friends to be with you through all of your ups and downs, you have to be by their side no matter what, too. Friendship is a two way street, so you better be prepared to participate in all of it.
Be Honest
The most important thing you can do with your friends is always be completely and totally honest with them. If you’re feeling down, let them know. If something they said hurt your feelings, speak to them about it. A strong line of communication is insanely critical if you want your friendship to thrive. Keeping secrets from your besties will only end your relationships.
(Pretty Little Liars via Freeform)
Wondering if your friendship will stand the test of time? HERE are five signs you and your BFF will be friends forever.