Truly great people are rare in this world, so when you find one, don’t let them go in a hurry.
Knowing when you’ve come across one of these gems should be pretty obvious, but in case you’re still not sure, look out for these signs. If you notice them, the person in question is kind, caring, thoughtful, and a genuinely good person. Nurture your relationship with them — they’re worth it.
1. They consistently show up when you need them.
A great person doesn’t just show up for the fun times; they’re there when you need support, too. Whether it’s celebrating your wins or offering a shoulder to cry on, they make an effort to be present, even when it’s inconvenient for them. This consistency proves their commitment and shows that they truly value your relationship.
2. They celebrate your achievements without jealousy.
Source: Unsplash A real gem is someone who’s genuinely excited about your success. Instead of feeling threatened or competitive, they’re the first to congratulate you and make you feel like a star. If they help you celebrate your wins — big or small — without any jealousy creeping in, they’re showing that they truly care about your happiness and growth.
3. They offer honest feedback with kindness.
Not everyone can handle giving or receiving feedback, but a great person knows how to be truthful without being hurtful. They’ll tell you what you need to hear, but they’ll do it in a way that helps you grow instead of knocking you down. This kind of honesty builds trust and shows that they have your best interests at heart.
4. They respect your boundaries and personal space.
A person worth keeping in your life understands the importance of giving you space when you need it. They don’t push you into things or demand your time and attention constantly. By respecting your boundaries, they show they’re mature and value your independence, which is essential for a healthy relationship.
5. They actually listen to you rather than just cutting you off.
It’s rare to find someone who truly listens without just waiting for their turn to talk. When a great person listens, they’re fully engaged — asking questions, paying attention, and showing they care about what you have to say. This kind of genuine interest is a sign that they value your thoughts and feelings.
6. They take responsibility for their actions and apologise sincerely.
We all make mistakes, but a truly great person owns up to theirs. They don’t make excuses or try to shift blame. When they’re wrong, they apologise genuinely and work to make things right. This level of accountability shows that they value your relationship enough to do what it takes to maintain it.
7. They don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk.
There’s nothing more trustworthy than someone whose actions match their words. If they say they’ll do something, they follow through. This reliability builds trust and shows that they respect your time and feelings. If they consistently keep their promises, you know they’re someone you can count on.
8. They support your growth and encourage your dreams.
A great person is like your personal cheerleader — always rooting for you to go after your goals. They don’t hold you back or feel insecure about your ambitions. Instead, they offer support, advice, and encouragement to help you achieve your dreams. Their belief in you makes you feel unstoppable.
9. They have a positive attitude, but they’re not unrealistic.
Someone worth keeping in your life has a balanced perspective. They know how to stay positive, even during tough times, without sugarcoating everything. They lift you up without denying the challenges you’re facing, making them a solid source of support when things get tough.
10. They show empathy and compassion towards other people.
A truly great person isn’t just kind to you — they’re kind to everyone around them. They show empathy, even to strangers, and genuinely care about people’s struggles. Their ability to connect with and support other people shows they have a big heart, which makes the world a better place.
11. They communicate openly and honestly.
Good communication is key in any relationship, and a great person values transparency. They’ll tell you how they feel, express their needs, and listen to yours. There’s no guessing game or mind-reading involved because they’re upfront about everything, creating a foundation of trust.
12. They show genuine interest in your life and well-being.
Someone worth holding onto takes the time to really get to know you. They remember the little details, like your favourite snack or how your big presentation went at work. They’re genuinely curious about your life and take an active role in making sure you’re okay, which deepens your connection.
13. They maintain their individuality whilst respecting yours.
Source: Unsplash In a healthy relationship, both people maintain their sense of self. A great person doesn’t expect you to change for them or lose your identity. They respect your individuality and are proud of who they are, too. This mutual respect for each other’s independence strengthens the bond between you.
14. They bring out the best in you.
Source: Unsplash When you’re around someone great, they inspire you to be your best self. They support your growth, help you see your strengths, and make you want to strive for more. If they make you feel confident, motivated, and happy just by being around, they’re definitely a keeper.
