How To Make, And Keep, Friends
Even friends have egos that bruise, tempers that flare, pouting spells on bad day, and often a (mutual) tendency to blame. So I thought I'd brainstorm some thoughts that might keep things on an even keel when things go inadvertently wrong.
Basic: Generosity may be the key to lasting friendship.
Show gratitude for courtesies.
Don't EXPECT compliments, (And don't angle for them either.)
Admit your shortcomings readily. (They are more obvious than you think anyhow.)\
Don't stifle your friendship by listening to negatives other people say about your friend.
A necessity to be right is a tiresome trait.
An unwillingness to argue about something does not mean you agree. Listening is friendly and
usually it isn't going to be something worth yelling over anyhow..
Keep quiet when a friend says, "I told you so!"
Slightly irritating behavior grows on you over time. A proof of friendship is the approval to get it out blamelessly for sharing.
Most disagreements are merely proof that one, or both, of you are being immature.
Be first to apologize. It really won't be as painful as you expect.
Accept apologies gracefully. (And don't purse your lips or roll your eyes either.)
Don't complain about plans for the day or evening if you left it up to the friend to arrange. No one is really a mind reader.
Never greet a friend with nagging or complaining. Save that for people who can do something about whatever you are unhappy about.
Friendship will teach you more about yourself than you bargained for.
You may be surprised how well you like someone, if you let yourself.
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