Have you ever thought about what makes a really good friend? It might not seem like the most pressing issue, but knowing what traits make a good friend can have a profound impact on your life. It lets you know how you should act to be a better friend to the people in your life. At the same time, it teaches you what you should expect from the closest people in your life. If you are interested in knowing what makes a good friend, then please start with these essential traits all good friends should have:

A good friend is going to have your back through the good times and the bad. It's easy to be friends with someone when everything is good, but who will be there when you fall on bad times? The people that stick by you in those times are good friends.

A friend doesn't have to be available at all times for your every whim, but they should be available when you need them. We are all very busy with our own lives, but if you have a friend you love, you make at least some time for them.

All good friendships need a little give and take. Good friends listen as much as they talk. They don't just focus on telling you all their problems. They actively listen to you as well. Listening and thoughtfully responding is a hallmark of a great friendship.

You are wonderful just the way you are. A good friend will recognize that. They will embrace your authentic self and not judge your personal decisions. As long as you aren't harming yourself, a good friend should support your choices.

A good friend doesn't have to be a non-stop party, but they should be fun to be around. You should look forward to seeing a good friend because you enjoy spending time with them. Of course, there will be sad events along the way, but you should be happy to be around your friends in general.

How can you be good friends with someone if you don't trust them? Without trust, there is no close friendship. You should feel equally comfortable sharing your secrets, or letting them housesit. A good friend will gain your trust and respect.

Honesty is important for any relationship in your life. A good friend is no different. They should respect you enough, to be honest with you. This might even mean they have to be brutally honest with you when needed.

It is so much more enjoyable to spend time with kind people. You and your friends might get your snarky jokes off about things, but at the end of the day, they should treat you with kindness. Even better is if your friend is kind to everyone, that is a good sign they are a good friend in general.

A good friend should build you up, not tear you down. You should feel confident and ready to take on the world with them at your side. If your friend is constantly nitpicking, doubting you, or otherwise being negative - they aren't a good friend, to begin with.

Think About Your Current Friendships. Are they fulfilling? Do any of your relationships throw up any red flags? Consider who you should be spending more or less time with.

Think About Yourself as a Friend. Are you a good friend? Do you exhibit the traits of a good friend? What areas could you work on and improve?

Do Something Nice. Think about one simple act you could take right now to benefit a close friend. Now go ahead and do it!