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Best friends will tell you that your bum really does look big in those jeans but they will also lend an ear when you call them to cry about the fact that your boyfriend just dumped you. In order to be a good friend you need to be caring, honest and trustworthy but there are some rules you need to follow if you want to cut the mustard as a best friend.

Live with her/his flaws

Nobody is perfect and everybody has flaws and issues. To be a best friend you need to accept these flaws and treat your friend as an equal. Allow your friend to be his or herself and they will treat you the same way. Stick up for your friend and if they are really driving you up the wall then take a breather. Maybe all you need is one day apart.

Just deal with it

There may be certain times in your friendship when you really don’t want to go to that party or out for lunch. Sometimes you have to learn to just deal with it, and slap on the smile for you friend’s sake. If they have a partner you don’t like then voice your opinions but if they don’t listen don’t let it ruin your friendship. Show an interest in the things they do even if you don’t completely understand them or think they are boring. Also learn when to keep quiet about certain issues if you can see they really bother your friend and he/she doesn’t want to talk about it.

Be honest

It is up to you to tell your friend that his girlfriend’s cheating on him and it’s your duty to convince your friend not to buy that ugly top. If you can see your friend really doesn’t want your opinion rather don’t give it and never say ‘I told you so’. Give an honest opinion as constructive criticism and rather often a solution rather than just a negative statement. If it’s something she/he can’t change then rather don’t be honest or don’t say anything.

Most importantly, never take your friends for granted and see them often. Compliment your friends and let them know you appreciate them.

Tags: friends