Signs of a True Friend During National Friendship Month

September is National Friendship Month, making it the perfect time to let someone know that being in one another’s lives means something very special to you. Having a few friends you can count on offers many benefits—knowing there is someone you can reach out to who will lend their support in a pinch is beyond compare. Returning the favor comes naturally, thanks to the bond you share. Studies show a solid friendship has many life-enriching benefits, including lowering stress levels, boosting happiness, improving your quality of life, offering emotional support and improving your outlook on how you view the world. I recently covered Friendship Etiquette with Dave Froehlich on Good Day Austin. Here’s a look at what you can expect from a true friend, and what is often off-limits.

National Friendship Month: Signs of a True Friend

They Are On Constant Tooth Patrol

Whether it’s kale or red peppers stuck in the front of your teeth, or a streak of cream cheese frosting on the side of your cheek from your recent birthday cake, a good friend will tell you immediately. They would never make you wait until the end of the meal or call you later and tell you hours after the fact. A true friend knows you would want to take care of the situation right away.

They Watch Your Pet When You Have to Travel (for a Short Time)

Unless you are allergic or you simply DO NOT like dogs, watching little Polly the Poodle for a couple of days may make your friend’s trip less stressful and more productive. Much like children, when you know your pet is being cared for by a loving friend, you can concentrate on work and get your job done. Whether you dog sit in person or drop in a few times a day to let the dog out and take her for a walk, your BFF will truly appreciate the favor.

They Help You Pack Valuables for a Move

The movers are coming, but you still need help with family heirlooms and breakables. A good friend will offer a couple of hours out of her day to help you pack. Of course, you shouldn’t expect an entire day, but offering some time to help a friend with a tedious chore, especially when they are feeling under pressure, is a true act of love.

They Show Up With a Casserole When You Are Down

If you are having surgery or your teen is having their wisdom teeth extracted, they help you out by showing up with a tray of food for your family to enjoy while you or your teen is recovering. If you need some special soup for your tummy, your friend will make it, or buy it, and put it in a microwavable bowl for someone to heat up when you are feeling hungry.

They’ve Got Your Back (Online and Offline)

When they notice someone has said something snarky on a post you have shared, they follow up immediately with a glowing post to show their support. They don’t “go after” the offender, but better, take the high road and cast a glow on you and whatever it is you mentioned—no need to go down the same negative path as the unhappy commenter. If they hear someone say something about you, or anyone else, they politely say, “I have never known that to be true. I am a fan of Suzanne’s.” Then, promptly change the subject. Friends have no time for gossip!

They Proofread Your Resume

When you write something to be shared with someone important, it’s always a good idea to have a second set of eyes look it over. A good friend will take the time to proofread your resume for errors or inaccuracies. It’s important not to get offended by their feedback once you ask for the favor, as they may have better ideas on how to communicate your message more effectively. Be careful who you ask for help—if you are asking someone who is not a strong writer, you may be doing yourself a disservice, and your friend may feel obligated but stressed out.

National Friendship Month Reminders

Friendship Etiquette Don’ts:

To keep the friendship strong and avoid jeopardizing the relationship, use your good judgment and remember these friendship no-no’s.

Avoid Asking Your Friend:

• To lend you money
• To borrow an expensive item such as a piece of jewelry, clothing or purse
• How much money they make or spent on their new car
• To cut your hair (if they aren’t a stylist!)
• To borrow their lawnmower, leaf blower or other high ticket household item (you know it’s going to break as soon as you use it!)

In case you missed my National Friendship Month segment on Good Day Austin, I’m including the video below.

For more information, check out The Protocol School of Texas. Another article that may interest you: How to Make New Friends and Build Lasting Relationships. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.