Making Friends

Start a conversation by asking questions like "What did you think about that homework assignment?"

Find out the other person's interests. For example, say "Do you belong to any clubs?"

To have a good friend, you must BE a good friend. Here are some tips:

Take an interest in things that are important to your friend.

Be supportive of your friend - we all need encouragement.

Be a dependable friend - do what you say you will do!

Be honest but tackful.

Be loyal - don't talk behind your friend's back.

Respect your friend's opinions and ideas.

Be a friend who can be trusted. Don't tell others your friend's secrets.

Some additional tips for making friends are:

Treat others like you want them to treat you.

Respect the property of others.

Make time for your friends.

Build up others instead of yourself.

Choose your friends carefully. It can help your relationships if you choose friends with similar values and interests.

Above all, be yourself!

Don't try to imitate any one else. Let others see the "real" you.

Stand up to peer pressure. Do and say what you think is right. Others will respect you for it and you will be able to live with yourself.

Have a positive attitude. No one likes being around someone who is always negative. Attitudes are contagious - make sure the one going around is positive.

Another thing to think about is.... Gossip destroys many friendships. Don't gossip if you want to keep your friends!

If people around you start to gossip you could:

Change the subject. You will be surprised at how easily others will join you in the new topic.

Walk away. Make it clear that you know how harmful gossip is.

Say to the person, "Let's not talk about Susie (or John or whoever).

Refusing to gossip is often difficult, but you'll be happier with yourself in the long run!

You can help prevent gossip when you:

Use good judgement in deciding who to tell and how much information to share.

Be careful about what you put in writing. Notes can easily fall into the wrong hands.

Believe only what you hear directly from the source - not second-hand stories.