One of the greatest parts about creating and growing relationships with people is that the more information you learn about them, the more memories you get from a life that you will never live. There are endless opportunities to further delve into the character and personas of the people you associate yourself with, and hopefully, you can find some qualities that you yourself would like to apply in your own life.

However, there are some qualities that many of us overlook, and those are the vital foundations of strong relationships. Having a bond with someone requires time, patience, and a formidable investment of yourself to have it grow and change and shape your life. As our generation grows and enters the realm of adulthood (the horror), it's time we start searching for these essential values and apply them to your life as well.

1. Compassion. This one should be a no-brainer, but alas, I must reiterate it. Compassion is one of human kind's most innate virtues. Caring for other humans plays on our empathy and teaches us to treat others as we would want to be treated. Knowing that someone has this quality can set your soul at ease, for, if anything were to happen in a sticky situation, you have the assurance that someone will be there to help you out of the kindness in their heart.

2. Integrity. This element of strong moral rightness is crucial in not only friendships, but also as a person. Having the inner voice that tells you "you need to do this" ultimately reflects the character and vibe that you give off. The ability to own up to your own mistakes without a second thought speaks volumes to the people around you, and ultimately brings them closer to you. It's always comforting to know that you have someone who will do the right thing every time.

3. Open-Mindedness. Our generation has made so many accomplishments in the short time that we have been here, and there are limitless opportunities from here on out. To do these sorts of revolutionary things, it's necessary that we maintain a general state of mind where we are open to new and collaborative ideas. This doesn't mean that we need to say yes to every idea that pops out of someone's mouth, because that could lead to a greater clashing of opinions, but it does mean that not everything has just one solution. A general appreciation of a variety of things goes over well with friends, because they have a stronger sense of trust in someone who accepts a vast amount of perspectives.

4. Constitution and Self-Respect. I value these two hand-in-hand above all else. Having a strong sense of self creates an independence that you can maintain even when there is no one around to notice it. Conforming to norms is one thing, but not living up to who you are is, frankly, a waste of time. Being confident in what you do with your time shows others that you are unfazed by the actions of others around you, and can retain your sense of self when met with any sort of conflict or clashing of personalities.

5. Foresight. I use this term to describe the ability to realize that sweating the small stuff is unnecessary, and that it's better to focus your energy on bigger problems that require your attention. Too often we get bogged down in the now, with the minor things that don't affect our lives as much as we think they do. Sometimes this trait is overlooked, when really, it should be celebrated, because it shows that someone can really bring to light the overarching situation, rather than being bogged down by the nitty gritty.

These qualities have the power to do wonders in our society, and really shine through as our generation grows, expands, and affects the world we live in. On a personal note, I have some quotes that I apply to my daily life that I hope you all can appreciate as well.

"If small things have the power to disturb you, then who you think you are is exactly that: small." - Eckhart Tolle

"To make the right choices in life, you have to get in touch with your soul. To do this, you need experience solitude, which most people are afraid of, because in the silence, you hear the truth and know the solutions." - Deepak Chopra

"True beauty lies in the purity of the heart." - Gandhi

"Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation." - John Wooden

"What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create." - Buddha