10 signs that you are surrounded by real friends who really care about you (2024)

True friends can be hard to find, but they are the gems that make life better. They are the ones you laugh, cry and share your secrets with.

But how do you know if your friends really care about you? It's not always easy to be sure.

That's why we've come up with 10 signs that show you're surrounded by real friends.

1. They are always there for you

A true friend is like a strong shelter during a storm;they are always there, does not matter what. Whether you're celebrating a victory or navigating a difficult time,they stay by your side.

They don't disappear when times get tough, or appear when things are rosy. Instead, they are your source of support, offering you a shoulder to cry on or sharing your joy with equal enthusiasm.

Remember, a true friend isn't just there for the good times;they are there even in the difficult times.

2. They listen to you

Listening is a simple but powerful act that shows you really care about someoneconcern.

Real friendsdon't just hear the words you say; they listen and understand. They are interested in your thoughts, your feelings and your stories, no matter how big or small. Whether you're sharing exciting news or talking about a bad day, they'll give you their undivided attention.

They don't shut you down and make it all about them. They get it and give advice if you want it, so you feel like they really hear you.

So if your friends take the time to listen to you without any distractions, it's a clear sign that they really care about you.

Not only do they listen, but they also remember all the details, which I will get into in the next point.

3. They remember the little things

This is something I've noticed with my closest friends;they remember the little details. These aren't monumental, life-changing events, just little snippets of conversation or random mentions of things I like or dislike.

There was the time I casually mentioned my love for vintage novels during a conversation with a friend. A few months later, on my birthday, she gave me a vintage edition of my favorite book. I was touched because it showed that she was really paying attention and appreciating our conversations.

True friends care about what makes you happy or sad, and they notice the little things.

4. They respect your boundaries

The hallmark of a true friendship is respect, and this includes respecting your boundaries. True friends understand that everyone has their boundaries and respect yours without making you feel guilty or uncomfortable.

For example, I remember a time when I was swamped with work and felt extremely overwhelmed. My friend had a meeting planned, and as much as I wanted to go, I knew I needed some quiet time to relax.

When I explained the situation to my boyfriend, he not only understood, but also reassured me that it was okay to take time for myself. He didn't make me feel bad when I said no. Instead, he offered to arrange another meeting place when things were less hectic for me.

This response showed me that he truly respected my boundaries and cared about my well-being.

5. They support your dreams

One of the greatest things I have experienced in my friendships is the unwavering support for my dreams.

True friends believe in your potential and support your dreams, even if they seem strange to others.

When I decided to change careers and pursue my passion for writing, many doubted me. But my best friends had my back. They encouraged me, offered help in any way they could, and encouraged me every step of the way. Even when I doubted myself, their faith in me never wavered.

6. They make time for you

In our busy world, time is one of the most valuable gifts we can give someone.

True friends understand this and go out of their way to spend time with you. They don't just slot you into their schedule; they make time for you because they value your business. They don't always have to be big outings or parties; sometimes it's just hanging out at home, having a heart-to-heart conversation or even a quick phone call.

Interesting fact: According to a study from the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, it takes about 50 hours combined to go from casual acquaintance to casual friend, and more than 200 hours to become close friends.

If your friends consistently invest time in your friendship, it's a clear sign that they really care about you.

7. They celebrate your successes

True friends don't stay alone through hard times; they are also there to celebrate your victories, no matter how small. They don't see your success as a threat or competition.

They cheer you on and are genuinely happy to see you blossom. In fact, research shows that friends who respond positively to your good news are more likely to have a strong and satisfying friendship with you.

If your friends are always cheering you on, whether through big milestones or small victories, it shows that they truly appreciate your happiness and growth.

8. They are honest with you

In a world of yes men and flattery, a friend who tells you the truth, even when it's hard, is a treasure.

True friends care too much about you to let you live in ignorance or make mistakes they think you can avoid. They're the ones who tell you if you have spinach in your teeth or if the outfit you're wearing doesn't suit you.

But their honesty goes deeper than that. If they think you are making a decision that could harm you, they will express their concerns, not to control or judge you, but out of genuine concern for your well-being.

I will explain more in the next point.

Their honesty can sting at times, but it comes from a place of caring.

9. They call you out

Sometimes we all need a reality check - and who better to give us that than our friends?

True friends are not afraid to call you out when you are wrong. They won't watch you make a mistake, hurt others, or hurt yourself.

Alternatively, they step in, tell you you're going too far and guide you back. This can feel uncomfortable and sometimes even annoying. But remember: they do it because they care about you.

They don't want to see you crash even oncewrong waywhen they can help you find the right path.

10. They accept you, flaws and all

No one is perfect and that includes you and me. We all have our quirks, our shortcomings, our insecurities.

True friends not only tolerate these, they accept them wholeheartedly. They don't expect you to change or fit into a certain pattern. Instead, they appreciate you for who you are, warts and all. They make you feel comfortable being your authentic self, without fear of judgment or criticism.

And honestly, isn't that one of the best feelings in the world?

Your friends really care about you when they see your imperfections and still choose to stay with you.

Good friends are hard to find

In a world where superficial connections are often mistaken for friendship, it's important to recognize the signs of real friends who really care about you.

These friends are rare gems that should be cherished and cherished.

If you are lucky enough to have such friends in your life, hold on to them because they are truly priceless.