A lifelong friendship is one of the most important relationships you’ll have in your life.

These days, it seems it's harder to make true friends.  Sometimes it’s hard to tell who is really a friend and who is not.  Who will be there through life’s ups and downs?  And who won’t?

The importance of friendship is undeniable.  Friendship creates a sense of belonging, joy, and comfort.  It’s good for our health and well-being.

We first form friendships in our childhood and teen years.   Later, as we go to college or university, and then through work or leisure experiences, we make new friends.  Some of these friends will go on to be true friends for life.  Here are some ways to tell if your friendship will last a lifetime:

1. You can tell her anything. 

She allows you to get vulnerable and trust her with your deepest thoughts and secrets.  She won’t tell a soul; she’s a vault.

2. She doesn’t expect anything from you.

She’s not there for a favour, a job, a reference, or a babysitter.  She just wants to be in your life.  She gives freely to you because she wants to make your life better.

3. She’s seen you at your worst.

She’s been there for you when you’ve let yourself go, when you messed up, had your most embarrassing moments, lost a loved one, or when you’ve cried your eyes out over a breakup. She doesn’t care how you look or how bad things have gotten; she’s there with a hand out and encouraging words.

4. She’s been there for your best moments.

Whether it’s been in person or in spirit, she was there when you reached a milestone, celebrated a success, or took the plunge. She makes you feel empowered, proud, and jubilant.

5. She’s reliable.

When you need someone to talk to or be there, she’s the one. Neither time nor space has changed your relationship. It doesn’t matter if she’s moved across the country or if she’s in your backyard.  She’s a phone call away and you can count on her.

6. She makes you laugh. And she laughs with you.

She is the one you get into trouble with. She is fun to be around and any situation can turn into a riot.

7. She gets you.

She understands you like no one else.  She’s been there and instantly knows what you need to get out of a rut or solve a problem.  She tells you what she thinks you need to know, directly and compassionately.  And she doesn’t judge you. She’s your soul sister.

When you have one of these rare friends for life, cherish them and tell them how grateful you really are.

Lisa Petsinis is a career and life coach.  Contact her today to inject more joy and meaning into your life.