How to Find Trustworthy Friends

Trustworthiness brings friends closer.

Choosing trustworthy friends is important because many friends share confidential information about themselves and their problems. Being able to discuss your problems and have confidence that your friends are not going to blab your secrets will strengthen your friendships. Nevertheless, finding trustworthy friends may require some effort.

Instructions

1. Socialize in places where you believe people who have similar interests and morals would be likely to go. If you are active in your church, you may find mixers and other activities a good place to meet trustworthy friends. Other possible places to meet trustworthy friends may be in school or on sports teams.

2. Listen to what the people you meet say. Some people are naturally nice and say appropriate things while others may gossip. Be attuned to any negative comments about potential friends and assess whether those individuals are true before deciding whether to advance the friendship. Gravitate toward people who seem to respect others and are sensitive to the feelings of others.

3. Observe the behavior of the people around you. A person who naturally tries to solve problems or resolve a dispute may be more trustworthy than one who is a catalyst for causing strife. Watch how potential friends interact with others and whether they are considerate of those around them. Additionally, observe how potential friends act in a group setting. Someone who bullies on a playground, in a classroom or in another group setting may not make a trustworthy friend.

4. Check up on your friends. Unfortunately, social networks have been a forum for bullying and gossiping. Sometimes you can see if a person is engaging in this type of behavior before confiding in her.

5. Be trustworthy to your friends and extend the same courtesy that you expect from them. Do not lie, gossip or put your friends in uncomfortable situations, and they will be likely to reciprocate. Try to be reliable so your friends know that they can count on you. Call them or arrive on time when you commit to making plans.

Tips & Warnings

• Choosing friends is often facilitated by common interests. When first determining if a friend is trustworthy, consider sharing a secret that you prefer remain confidential but wouldn't cause harm to anyone if it leaked out. As your friends prove their trustworthiness, you will feel more confident opening up to them.

References

• School for Champions: Being Trustworthy Shows Character