Lane Jordan, a professional life coach, offers helpful counsel for women who want an organized life. In 
this post, she has good advice for those of us who want to UPGRADE our friendships.
“I am very loyal to my friends, and I want to be there for them as much as possible,” Lane said.
I think most of us want to “be there” for friends … but how?
Lane continues …
Friends are people who also have illnesses, family troubles and hardships. We need to be available to stretch out our hands to them in their need.
If you don’t have the time in your life now to help a friend, then maybe you are doing too much.
What would you change in your life?
1. If friends are sick, be ready to help drive them to the doctor or pick up something for them at the store.
Keep a meal frozen in your freezer so you will have one to give away quickly if a friend is in need. Be willing to babysit their children.
2. Be available to talk to them when they need you, in person or by phone.
Try to stop what you are doing and be sure to listen well. Many times all a friend needs is someone to listen and to care. Have empathy—put yourself in their shoes. Offer encouragement. Don’t nag or argue.
3. E-mail them a short message or a text so they know you care.
This is a way to keep in touch without intruding or bothering them.
4. Accept your friends as they are.
Praise their accomplishments and never be jealous of them. Be forgiving. And if you need to, don’t be afraid to say you’re sorry.
5. Always keep promises and secrets.
A real friend never gossips, is discreet and confidential.
6. Speak words of hope, grace and truth, and demonstrate faith.
A friend also prays for and with her friends and commits to prayer intercession for them.
7. Be there when a friend loses a loved one.
Sometimes we don’t know what to say when our friends are grieving. But a quick visit with a meal, visiting just to be available, sending a card or letter that shares how special their loved one was, and even remembering the birthday of the deceased are extremely helpful and loving gestures.
Grieving is an ongoing process that requires continuing help and support. “Bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2) is a verse we need to remember.
Friends are healthy! Having a community of friends around you will keep you healthier and will give you more joy in your life. Do all you can to cultivate friendships.
Which of these points most encourages you to UPGRADE your friendships … to grow in your relationships?
Lane P. Jordan is an author, national speaker and seminar leader for Christian organizations, a certified
professional life coach with the American Association of Christian Counselors, and has served as Associate Producer for the weekly television program “In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley.” Explore her website!
Note: This post is adapted from pages 42-43 in Lane’s book, 12 Steps to Becoming a More Organized Woman. Graphic in text is adapted from photo by Stuart Miles, freedigitalphotos.net.