Determining if someone is genuinely your friend involves looking at their behavior, actions, and the nature of your relationship. Here are some signs to consider when assessing the authenticity of a friendship:

• Consistency: A true friend is consistent in their behavior towards you. They don’t just reach out when they need something; they make an effort to stay in touch and show interest in your life.
• Mutual Respect: Genuine friends respect your opinions, values, and boundaries. They don’t pressure you into doing things you’re uncomfortable with and treat you with kindness and consideration.
• Supportive: True friends are there to support you through both good and tough times. They celebrate your successes and offer a shoulder to lean on when you face challenges.
• Trustworthiness: Trust is a cornerstone of friendship. A real friend keeps your confidences, is honest with you, and doesn’t betray your trust.
• Equality: Healthy friendships are built on a sense of equality. A genuine friend doesn’t dominate the relationship or make you feel inferior.
• Shared Interests: While not all interests need to align, having some shared hobbies or activities can enhance the bond between friends.
• Empathy and Understanding: True friends try to understand your feelings and perspective. They’re empathetic and show genuine concern for your well-being.
• Apologizes and Forgives: Everyone makes mistakes. A real friend takes responsibility for their actions, apologizes when necessary, and forgives you when you do the same.
• Spending Time Together: Genuine friends make time for you and enjoy spending time with you, even if it’s just a casual chat or hanging out.
• No Strings Attached: True friends don’t keep a tally of favors or expect something in return for their kindness. Their friendship is not conditional on what you can offer them.
• Celebrating Differences: A true friend respects your differences and doesn’t try to change you. They appreciate you for who you are.
• Feeling Positive: Being around a real friend makes you feel good about yourself and your interactions leave you with positive emotions.

Remember that friendships can evolve over time, and it’s okay for relationships to change as both people grow. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that no one is perfect. If you’re uncertain about the authenticity of a friendship, open communication can help clarify feelings and expectations for both parties.