20 Things True Friends Don't Do

Even healthy relationships aren't perfect, but don't ignore the red flags. Strong bonds require respect, support and most importantly, effort. If your squad avoids these faux pas, they're all keepers.

Only Talk About Themselves

A strong friendship goes both ways. She should want to know what's going on in your world — not rehash what's been happening in hers for the umpteenth time.

Shut You Out

The opposite problem can affect your bond too. Opening up helps you connect and solve problems together. No one should struggle alone!

Gossip About You

Dishing on the contestants on The Bachelor is one thing, but talking dirt about your friends in real life can be hurtful and cruel.

Only Hang Out When It's Convenient

Everyone's busy. Even if her schedule's all booked, a real friend fits in a quick coffee run. Constantly breaking plans (or showing up late to them) might signal your relationship isn't a priority.

Judge You

We all make mistakes. A good friend will help you move on, not criticize your actions.

Discourage You From Your Goals

If she makes a gym date and keeps it, she's a winner. Good friends push you to be your best self, and give you a kick in the butt when you need it.

Sugarcoat the Truth

White lies might be polite, but you rather know whether your outfit is actually cute. Same goes for the hard stuff. She shouldn't stay quiet when your SO is acting shady.

Spill Your Secrets

It's the number one rule of girl code. If you tell your friend something confidential, you can expect it to stay that way.

Get Jealous

When you get a promotion, she should be the first the pop the champagne. A true friend recognizes that your accomplishments don't detract from her own.

Give Up After One Fight

Life's too short to hold grudges . Swallowing your pride and offering a sincere apology goes a long way.

Always Put Their SO First

Balancing platonic and romantic relationships can be tough, but both deserve time and effort. If she's constantly ditching you to stay in with the husband, it might be time for a talk.

Only Say Happy Birthday on Facebook

There's an important difference between a friend and an acquaintance. This is it.

Bring You Down

Spending time together should lift you up. If she's enabling your worst habits or hurting your self-esteem, it's time for a change.

Interrupt You

Careful listening shows someone that you value what they're saying. Butting in with advice before you know the whole story? Not helpful.

Put You in Awkward Situations

Whether it's asking for a difficult favor or ditching you at a party, friends should know what makes you feel uncomfortable. It's called empathy!

Post Embarrassing Photos of You

She might look ah-mazing, but if you're blinking in your friend's latest Instagram, a picture says a thousand words.

Let You Drive Drunk

You've attended enough happy hours together that they know your limits — and hold you to them.

Fret About Splitting the Check

If you hang out enough, she shouldn't care that your entrée cost $3 more. It all evens out in the end.

Start Drama

Some people live for it. Most of us can go without the pointless fights.

Ignore You for New Friends

Friendships don't last forever. While connections change over the years, a true friend doesn't take a strong bond for granted.

Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.

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