The time-worn saying "show me your friends and I'll tell you who you are" has a lot of truth to it.
You cannot spend all your time around toxic and negative people and turn out to be a bubbly and optimistic person who brings joy to the lives of others. Similarly, if you have big ambitions and spend your time with people who discourage you as you chase your dreams, then your chances of succeeding will be pretty low.
Science even backs this up. A study from 2007 showed that negative opinions have the greatest effect on our attitudes. And no, they don't just turn good into bad, but they can also make bad worse.
During the study, the subjects were given products and given all the information they needed about them. However, when asked to get opinions about these products from other people, their views about the products and their opinions regarding them changed substantially. Never mind that these people knew all they needed to about the products in the first place.
And what does this tell you? That you should spend your time around people who are positive and happy, and the same joy will rub off on you. Sure, they will have to tell you harsh truths about yourself and your life from time to time. But understand that there is a world of difference between honesty and negativity.
You'll know you have real friends when you notice these 7 things in them.
They Stick With You Till The End
However tough life becomes, a true friend will always stay by your side. These friends never tire of your troubles, and they will always be there to encourage and support you and give you all the help you need to overcome your suffering. They will also let go of minor issues that would jeopardize your relationship.
They Make You Rejuvenated
When you are down in the dumps, true friends will do all they can to lift you up. That is why they will steer clear of your insecurities and focus on the good things about you because they don't want you to worry about the dress you are wearing, your weight, or your shitty job. And even when they have to say something unpleasant, they will say it is the most loving and caring way, and you will feel energized because all you will hear is how much they care about your well-being.
They Don't Gossip About You
True friends will not say bad things about you behind your back. Whenever you are the topic of discussion, they will be saying positive things about you. They will be very defensive of you when they hear other people talking ill of you. Whenever they have bad things to say concerning you, they will usually come to you directly and will not share that information with anyone else.
They Always Worry About You
Whatever you are going through, your real friends will always be concerned. When you get stuck at work past regular working hours, they will call to see how you are doing. They always seem to know how to keep you from stressing over minor issues in life, and they will be there to support you when an important relationship comes to an end.
They Make You Feel Accepted
True friends make you feel like you belong and are valued and accepted. They will protect you, love you, and accept you with all your flaws. They want the best for you under all circumstances.
They Celebrate Even Your Little Achievements
A true friend will always be happy for you because they long to see you become your best self. That is why they will be happy about all the successes in your life, however minor they might seem. Even when you buy a new set of clothes, they will make a big deal out of it.
They Are Not Insecure Or Possessive
When other people come into your life, true friends will not feel insecure or get jealous. They will see the new person as part of your life, and they will not get in your way of having a good relationship with that person. In fact, they will be happy for you if the new friendship brings you happiness, even if it means not enjoying your company as much as they did in the past.
