On social media networks like Facebook, you probably get the impression that some people have hundreds or even thousands of friends.

But studies show that people usually maintain a close relationship with only a few people in real life.

It takes time and nurturing for real friendships to develop, and there are certain habits and characteristics that genuine friends possess, which makes them more like family.

So, here are the qualities of a true friend.

Number 1, They Accept You as You Are

A true friend won't try to change you.

They embrace everything about you, from your flaws to your best personality traits.

They may not agree with or like everything that you say or do, but they won't bash you or try to change your personality.

They simply accept you as you are.

Number 2, They Really Listen

How many times have you tried to have a conversation with someone about something that is important to you, and that person keeps turning the topic back to him or herself?

You somehow don't find these conversations fulfilling.

But when you have a conversation with a real friend, they aren't one-sided.

You find that your friend really listens to you.

They don't talk over you, misunderstand what you're saying, or try to hog the attention in the conversation.

They open themselves up to listening, really listening, with the intent to understand your thoughts and feelings.

Number 3, They Don't Gossip

Real friends will never talk bad about you behind your back.

They will always confront you personally if they need to talk.

They respect you and won't spread rumors and tarnish your reputation behind your back.

They would rather talk face-to-face and resolve any issues they may have.

Number 4, They Stick with You

This probably best distinguishes a real friend from a fake one.

A true friend will never leave you just because you're going through a rough patch.

They will laugh with you through the good times but then cry with you through the bad ones.

They will stick by your side and help you through the darkness.

They will offer to help however they can.

In today's world of flaky, fake friendships, you should genuinely cherish those who are really there for you.

These are the people you will want to keep in your life, as they're definitely genuine friends who want the best for you and care about your well-being.

They understand that you can't always deal with all of life's curveballs all by yourself, so they have your back, no matter what.

Number 5, They Make Time for You

Real friends will never blow you off or tell you that they're too busy for you.

They don't just talk to you when it's convenient.

Yes, they might have to rearrange their schedule a bit, but they will never use lack of time or other commitments as an excuse not to see you.

A true friend will usually follow through with their promises to you, no matter how busy life gets, and you never feel like you have to chase them in order to keep them in your life.

Number 6, They Don't Hold Grudges

A real friend is aware that nobody is perfect.

When you're with them, you don't feel like you have to walk on eggshells to gain their approval.

They understand that you muck up every now and then, and you don't have to offer a long apology.

They just put it behind them, because they know that you have good intentions despite whatever mistakes you make.

Number 7, You're Comfortable around Them

Being completely comfortable is a sign of true friendship.

You can act silly and let your guard down, and you never have to think twice about doing so.

You can tell each other anything, and you don't have to censor yourselves.

You don't have to fake laugh or force conversations.

Everything just seems to flow effortlessly between the two of you.

A true friend wants to know your secrets, your wildest dreams, embarrassing stories, and things you wouldn't share with just anyone.

They want to know you to your core.

Number 8, They See the Best in You

One of our greatest faults can be our negative self-criticism, but true friends lift us up when we're down.

Our closest friends are the ones who beg to differ when our self-opinion starts getting low.

When you feel ugly, your friend reminds you of your beauty.

When you feel talentless, your friend reminds you of your many skills.

A real friend can see the positive things about you, even when you don't see them yourself.

Number 9, They Tell It Like It Is

They don't tell you what you want to hear.

Not just for argument's sake, but they will tell you when you are actually wrong.

They tell you the truth, even if it may hurt,

not because they want to make you feel bad, but rather, to help you make better choices in your life and become a better person.

You've learned to appreciate this because not many people in life will tell it like it is.

Number 10, They Don't Get Jealous

A real friend is confident in the bond that you share, and they will never try to control you.

They understand that you don't have to be in their company around the clock in order to validate the friendship,

and they give you the freedom to pursue other friendships and activities in your life.

Few people will genuinely be happy for your success.

In fact, most people around you will be jealous or envious.

But true friends will actually be happy for you and push you to achieve even greater heights.

So, how do your friends rank?

Do you recognize these qualities in your friendships?

Let us know in the comments below.

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