7 Ways to Be a Better Friend in 2017

A random phone call every few months isn't enough! If you find yourself having some down time on your commute or over the weekend, pick up the phone. Giving your good friends a phone call once a week shows that you're interested in their lives and you want to stay caught up.

It can sometimes be draining to deal with friends who are going through hardships, but that's when they need you the most. Don't create distance when your friend is having a tough time. True friends really shine when they are there during difficult situations.

If you set up a time to meet, stick to it! The number one reason friends don't remain close is because they don't actually see each other enough. Plus, there's nothing worse than a flaky pal. It makes others feel like they aren't a priority in your life. Besides, it's an awesome feeling being around your buds for some much-needed talking and laughing.

Friendship is a two-way street. You should be listening as much as you're speaking. Make sure your interactions aren't one-sided or focusing too much on one person. That way, everyone will be happy.

If you have a friend who accomplished something wonderful, make that pal feel amazing! There's nothing better than letting someone know how proud and supportive you are. That being said, when something bad happens, you have to lift them up. Don't let them get into a slump.

Secrets only create more problems. Friends are there to hear your private matters judgment-free.

Nobody is perfect, so of course your friends are going to have some faulty characteristics. But you're their friend for all of their positive attributes — and those greatly outweigh the little annoying things. Embrace your buds for who they are and make sure they're doing the same. You'll have the healthiest relationships yet.