How to Spot Real Friends vs. Situational Ones
Amanpreet Singh | Apr 26, 2025, 11:08 IST
Not all friends are forever—some are just around for convenience. Learn how to identify true friendships from those based only on situation, so you can protect your energy and build real connections.
Friendship is one of life’s greatest blessings—but not every friend is a true one. Some people show up when it’s easy, fun, or beneficial to them, only to vanish the moment things get tough. These are situational friends. In contrast, real friends stick around when it's uncomfortable, messy, or inconvenient—because they genuinely care about you, not just what they get from you.
Let’s explore how to tell the difference.
Real friends are consistent. Whether you’re doing great or going through a rough patch, they stay in touch, check on you, and make time for you. Situational friends appear mostly when it benefits them—maybe when they need notes, company, help, or a favour.
Ask yourself: Do they check in on me when I have nothing to offer?
A major test of friendship is what happens when things go wrong. When you’re struggling, feeling low, or not at your best—real friends offer support, not silence.
Situational friends tend to disappear when things get real. They might feel “too busy” or give excuses.
A true friend celebrates your wins without jealousy. They cheer you on and feel proud of your achievements.
On the other hand, situational friends may feel threatened or competitive. They may try to downplay your success or suddenly act distant.
Friendship is mutual. If you're always the one making plans, sending texts, or showing up—but the effort isn't returned—then it's not balanced.
Real friends match your energy. Situational ones keep the bond alive only when they need something.
Around real friends, you feel safe to be your authentic self. You don't have to filter your words, hide your problems, or pretend to be okay.
If you constantly feel the need to "keep up appearances" or fear judgment, you might be with someone who’s just there for the good times.
Life is too short to invest in people who are only there when it suits them. Recognize who truly values you, and don’t be afraid to let go of situational friendships. By doing so, you make space for deeper, healthier connections built on honesty, empathy, and real love.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.
Spot Real Friends vs. Situational Ones
Let’s explore how to tell the difference.
1. Consistency vs. Convenience
Ask yourself: Do they check in on me when I have nothing to offer?
2. Support During Hard Times
Situational friends tend to disappear when things get real. They might feel “too busy” or give excuses.
Spot Real Friends vs. Situational Ones
3. Genuine Joy for Your Success
On the other hand, situational friends may feel threatened or competitive. They may try to downplay your success or suddenly act distant.
4. Effort Isn’t One-Sided
Real friends match your energy. Situational ones keep the bond alive only when they need something.
Spot Real Friends vs. Situational Ones
5. Can You Be Your True Self?
If you constantly feel the need to "keep up appearances" or fear judgment, you might be with someone who’s just there for the good times.
Life is too short to invest in people who are only there when it suits them. Recognize who truly values you, and don’t be afraid to let go of situational friendships. By doing so, you make space for deeper, healthier connections built on honesty, empathy, and real love.
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.