Friendship is one of the important aspects of our lives and is something that should be honoured and treasured.

Friends are always there when you need them, offering support and comfort when times are tough. They act as your partner in crime for a night on the town. They’re someone you can let your inner child out with, share honest advice with and act as one another’s protector. They’ll always be on the end of the phone when you need a chat, regardless of the time of day.

It’s the little things friends do that make them even more special.

As we grow older and our lives change, we can sometimes lose contact with friends. But this isn’t necessarily a bad thing – it’s just a part of life. You can still stop and talk to each other and keep up to date with each other’s lives via email or social media.

No matter how long you’ve known each other or how you met, friendship is important, and it’s important to stay in touch with each other. A quick phone call or message to see how they’re doing can go a long way.

Here are some honourable qualities that will always be appreciated in a friendship;

• Comfort and Support

If you’re going through a tough and upsetting time, your friends will be there – whether you ask them to or not. Friends will help you through the turbulence, comfort and support you, whilst providing encouragement. No doubt, you would do the same for them.

• Confidence Boost

Friends are great at improving your self-esteem and keeping motivation levels high. Whether you need a pick-me-up, or you need more support to help get you back on track again, your friends will provide you with the confidence and encouragement needed. Friends are great for making you feel good about yourself.

• Keep You Occupied

Friends are great for keeping you occupied and active. Whether it’s a few drinks at your local bar, a shopping trip, watching your favourite sports team or a weekend away, it’s good to have something set in the diary to spend time with friends. However, you don’t necessarily have to go somewhere to spend time together. Why not bring out your favourite teacups and invite them round to yours for a cuppa and a catch up? If you haven’t got a favourite set of teacups or mugs, treat yourself to a new one! These stunning Sara Miller London for Portmeirion Chelsea Collection teacup and saucers make for the perfect cup of tea and catch up with friends.

• Creating Memories

Some of the best memories are created with friends, ones that you will treasure for years to come. Some will bring laughter, some will be tearful. From weddings to new family additions, to new jobs and birthdays, friends will be there through various milestones and stages of your life.

We’re sure that we don’t need to remind you about the importance of holding on to your friends, but friendship truly is one of the most precious gifts one can have. So pick up the phone and organise to do something with your friends, and continue to make those exclusive memories together.

“Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything”, Muhammad Ali.