It’s much easier to make friends than to make best friends. Sometimes you feel like a friend is already best friends with someone else. It’s tough, but there’s always someone out there who will put you first in any and every situation. Here’s how you can turn a friend into a best friend.

1. Make the effort: Rather than waiting for someone to message you about hanging out on a Friday, make the first effort instead! Most people try to avoid making the first attempt because they feel they sound too desperate and don’t want to seem like they have nothing better to do. However, everyone should remember that the worst thing that could happen is the person has something else going on. If the friend isn’t interested, that friend is missing out and probably isn’t the best friend for you anyways. Keep trying, and don’t wait around for someone to talk to you first, because chances are, they might be afraid, too!

2. Find a common interest: Being in the same school activities or classes is pretty important in making best friends. You get to see that person more often and actually have something to talk about or bond over. Say you don’t see yourself becoming friends with anyone in your six dull classes. Just join a club, organization, or sport instead! You’ll probably end up meeting someone who shares your common interests and that you can easily relate to.

3. Don’t get jealous: In any situation, your friends probably have other people who are going to hang out with without you. They shouldn’t have to limit themselves to just one friend. It’s common for a best friend to spend time with other friends other than their number one best friend. But when the two come together, it’s like they were never separated in the first place. It’s what you make of the time you have with that one friend that builds those closer bonds. The more you get jealous of your friends achievements or new relationships, the more that potential best friend won’t want to spend time with you.

4. Be present: It’s common for friends to be around each other and not say a word to one another, busily texting on their smartphones. If you want to actually become close to someone, you should probably put aside everything your doing just to have a heart-to-heart conversation with them. It’s the only way you’re going to get to know that person well. Some people want company but have no conversation starters. They go on their phones instead to look occupied. Just ask them about their weekend or how class went, they might be dying to share something with you.

In close friendships, it’s essential to knowing almost everything about that other person. The real difference between friends and best friends is best friends can tell each other everything and are not afraid of being judged or hurt by that other person. Trust is a must in all close friendships.