FRIENDS WITH FLAWSHow do you feel about having a friend who has problems? You may have already done this. And guess what? Your friend may feel the same way about you. The fact is that no one is perfect, so don't expect to find a perfect friend. Have you heard the saying “don’t worry about the little things”? You may have small incidents sometimes, but is it worth ruining a friendship? Don't stay angry for long. If you have an argument, talk about it and resolve it. True friends care enough about each other to forgive and forget. If you have issues that are too difficult to resolve, you may be in an incompatible relationship. If this is the case, this unhealthy relationship is not worth continuing. But be careful and don't let one incident end a good relationship that might be worth saving. If you're unsure, don't abruptly end a friendship. Let the emotions calm down and take the time to look at the situation logically. You will then know what to do. Many best friend relationships have problems, but it's common. Accepting your friends and their faults is the best way to make a good friend and keep them for the rest of your life. LESSONS LEARNED IN THIS SECTION: Be willing to accept a friend with flaws. You also have flaws. If you have a disagreement, calm down before talking about it. Learn to forgive and forget. Don't let petty arguments end a good friendship. RESPECT BOUNDARIES OR ELSEWHERE A person in a codependent relationship who doesn't understand healthy boundaries can ruin a good friendship. Knowing your limits simply means understanding acceptable limits and respecting them. This is the story of a codependent relationship. Remember the lady I told you about earlier who knocked on doors to make friends? I have another story to tell about him. This time it involves me and shows ...... middle of paper ...... capable with. Simply ask and discuss mutually acceptable boundaries if you can't determine this on your own. If this seems too awkward, listen to his tone of voice when you mention that you want to visit him or do something with him. If their response lacks enthusiasm, they may be trying to tell you something without actually saying it. Finally, watch for clues in their body language. If you make a suggestion and they take a deep breath and sigh, this may be a sign of disapproval. Be mindful not to exceed acceptable limits, but don't obsess over looking for clues. Adjust the time you spend with a friend if necessary. If you don't respect boundaries, you increase the chances of losing a friend, like I did. LESSONS LEARNED IN THIS CHAPTER: Respect appropriate boundaries. Discuss acceptable limits. Don't let emotional needs be a burden. Adjust the time spent together if necessary..