The Worst Ways to Make Friends

Friendship is one of the most enriching experiences in life. However, certain approaches might seem effective in the short term but ultimately backfire. Here are some of the worst ways to make friends, according to common sense and ethical standards.

1. Stealing an Animal and Returning it to Gain Friendship

Stealing someone's beloved pet and returning it later might seem like a good way to win their gratitude. However, the essence of friendship lies in genuine care and respect for one another. This act is both unethical and illegal. Once the pet’s owner notices the missing animal and upon finding it rescued, the temporary gratitude might not suffice for lasting friendship. The traumatic experience is more likely to lead to suspicion and mistrust between the two parties.

2. Acting on First Impressions

Many people make friends based on initial impressions, often gravitating towards charismatic and fun-seeming individuals without understanding their true nature. While it’s natural to be drawn to someone with a vibrant personality, it’s crucial to get to know the person's character and values before making a deep bond. Preferring someone based solely on their first impression can be a disastrous path to friendship, as people may have hidden drawbacks or traits that clash with yours.

3. Buying Your Friends Gifts

Sending expensive gifts may seem like a thoughtful gesture, but it can be seen as an ulterior motive to gain something in return. True friendships are based on mutual respect and interest in each other's well-being, not monetary exchanges. Good friends pay their own way, and it’s more rewarding to create a shared experience together. Spending money on friends should only be considered a gesture of care and support, not as a means to establish a relationship.

4. Forming Friendships Through Lies or Fabrications

Building a friendship on lies or false pretenses can lead to the collapse of the relationship when the truth is revealed. Real friends should have a transparent understanding of each other. Social media and online interactions can be misleading, as they often only show a curated version of oneself. Meeting in person is vital for a friendship to develop beyond a superficial level. Over time, online interactions can make it difficult to gauge how someone truly feels, especially in moments of need.

5. Outrageous and Radical Methods

Consider the idea of creating a mismatched creature by piecing together different body parts of people murdered and dismembered. Engaging in such heinous acts and trying to form a friendship in the process is not only unethical but also illegal. This approach is obviously way beyond what any sane person should attempt and is not a viable method for building meaningful relationships.

In conclusion, the best way to build lasting friendships is through honest, transparent, and mutually respectful interactions. True friendships are strengthened through shared experiences and genuine connections, not through shockingly unethical actions or fabrications.