My sister is my best friend. She pushes me to do things outside of my comfort zone and helps me to be more outgoing. She tells me the truth even if it isn’t what I want to hear.

FOUNDATION FOR FRIENDSHIP

A good friendship is built on the foundation of common values. That means your friend shares your spiritual, moral, and ethical convictions.

The next factor, matching traits, is less important.

And quite often, similar interests matter least. After all, you can be friends with someone whose hobbies and talents are different from yours.

Warning: Be cautious about friendships that are founded on similar interests alone. If that friend doesn’t share your values, the relationship will likely totter—or worse, it may get you into trouble.