As we navigate adulthood, we undergo significant growth. We learn to embrace who we are, adapt to life’s unpredictability, and become comfortable in our own skin. However, this journey sometimes leads us to outgrow certain friendships. While some connections fade naturally, others may simply no longer fulfill us. Fortunately, if we’re lucky, we find a few lasting friendships with people who accept all our evolving selves.
Making friends as an adult, though, is no walk in the park. When you find someone you connect with, you know the friendship is the real deal when you notice these signs:
Common Interests Don’t Matter as Much as Chemistry
You might share a few interests or a ton, but the connection you feel is what truly counts. She might tease you about your obsession with CrossFit, while you poke fun at her endless talk about hot yoga. After your workouts, you both head to grab your beloved caffeinated drinks, and it just clicks.
A Soulful Look Says It All
You can exchange a glance, and she instantly knows what you’re thinking. That look that screams, “Please, let’s escape this conversation!” is met with perfect understanding.
She’s Independent
Your friend gets that life can get chaotic. She knows you have a busy schedule, so if you have to cancel plans or take a while to respond, she’s totally cool with it. She’s been there, too.
Time Apart Feels Like Nothing
You can go months without seeing each other, but when you finally reunite, it feels like you were never apart. Conversation flows effortlessly as you catch up on everything.
No Need for Explanations
When you start to explain your feelings, she stops you and tells you it’s okay to feel that way. She validates your emotions without making you justify them, which feels refreshing.
Past Stories Only Bring You Closer
When you share a less-than-perfect chapter from your past, she doesn’t judge; instead, she shares her own wild story that makes yours seem tame. This comfort deepens your bond.
Outfit Feedback Without Weirdness
You can send her a pic of your new outfit, and she gives you honest feedback. If it’s not your best look, she’ll say it gently, aiming to save you from future embarrassment, not hurt you.
Truthful Friend
She’ll tell you if you’re being unreasonable, but she does it with kindness. You know if it’s coming from her, you can trust it.
Acceptance of Your Quirks
You can share food or drinks without a second thought. After all, you’ve both dealt with life’s messes—lice treatments, cleanups, and all that jazz—so sharing a plate feels like nothing.
Even if you weren’t there for her formative moments—like her first heartbreak or wedding day—once you meet, it feels like you’ve always known each other. You both know you’ll be the wild ladies causing ruckus in the nursing home years down the line.
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Summary
Finding a true friend as an adult can be challenging, but the signs of a genuine connection are unmistakable: shared chemistry, understanding of life’s chaos, and the ability to connect deeply without needing to explain yourself. These friendships enrich our lives, and knowing someone has your back is priceless.