4 types of friends to cherish and not let go

As a counsellor / therapist one of my focus areas with my clients would be to help them build / enhance a healthy support system around themselves. One such support system could be having good friends and this is one of the significant steps in their progress.

Friendship is defined as “a state of enduring affection, esteem, intimacy, and trust between two people” (Britannica.com)

We make a lot of friends throughout our life and there are many different kinds of friends that we may come across. And I am not definitely talking about the friends list from social media. Whoever comes into our life has a role to play, some for a short duration and some for long. Some may be fun to be around, have interesting stories to tell, some you may have common interests with, work colleagues, neighbours etc. Many may come into your life and many may move out too.  

Here are a few types of friends, whom if you are fortunate to have, are to be cherished and not let go.

1. A friend who believed in you when you yourself didn’t.

When you are doing well there will be a lot of people around you to praise you and want your company. But when things are not going good for you, who is the person who believes in you, when you are doubting yourself.  The one who tells you, you can do it, it is just a matter of time, focused effort and encourages you to stay on track.

2. A friend who calls a spade a spade.

Times when you are about to make a mistake or already did, your friend calls out your behaviour in private and tells you that you are making a mistake or a blunder.  In public they still have your back and help you address or sort out the mistake / issue.

3. A friend who makes time for you and listens to you.

A lot of people would spend time with you when it is convenient for them.  The friend who makes time for you even if it is inconvenient for them is valuable. One of the most precious gift that someone can offer you is the gift of time and attention. They offer you true listening and not judge you.

4. A friend who offers you safety and keeps your secrets.

This friend doesn’t gossip. What you shared with them does not go anywhere from them. You feel safe talking and sharing with them with the knowledge and confidence that what you share with them will remain with them and will not be used against you.

Having good friends can reduce the level of stress, enable you to cope with challenges in a healthy manner and lead to over all enrich your life in multiple ways.

Recognize and value these friendships.  They add value to your life and help you grow as a person and be better as a person.

What to you think? Can you think of other highly valuable friendships? Add in the comments section.

About the Author:

Kala Balasubramanian is a certified Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist with a Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy, Diplomas in Counselling and has further certifications specializing in couple/marriage/relationship counselling and family counselling. As a trained therapist, she provides professional and confidential counselling services including Individual counselling and Couples counselling / Marriage counselling.

Currently with the COVID-19 situation, all counselling services are offered online over video calls. Reach us at +91 9632146316 or write to us at counselor@innerdawn.in.