If I'm writing an essay about the qualities of a good friend, is it okay to use the word 'you'?

Question

for example, 'a good friend respects you for who you are', 'a good friend wants what's good for you'...

If I can't use you, what can I replace it with and still make it sound good?

so how do you put 'good friends are happy for you' in the third person?

Answer 1

I wouldn't use the word you. You is overused and second person is not the most interesting voice when writing.

A good friend is respectful. A good friend wants what is best for others. Friendly companions wish the best for each other....

mutual friends...

Synonyms for friend:
acquaintance, ally, alter ego, amigo, associate, bedfellow, blocker, boon companion, bosom buddy*, brother, buddy, chum*, classmate, cohort, colleague, companion*, compatriot, comrade, confrere, consort, countryman, cousin, crony, familiar, fellow, intimate, kissing cousin, little brother, main man, main squeeze, mate, other self, pal, partner, playmate, roommate, schoolmate, sidekick, sister, soul mate*, spare*, well-wisher

accomplice, adherent, advocate, ally, associate, backer, partisan, patron, supporter, well-wisher

best friend, bosom buddy, close friend, companion, confidant, dear friend, pal, soul mate

admirer, baby, beau, companion, crush, daddy, date, escort, fiancé, flame*, follower, gentleman caller, gentleman friend, heartthrob, inamorato, lover, main man, man, old man, paramour, squeeze, steady, suitor, swain, sweetheart, truelove, wooer, young man

best friend, constant friend, devoted friend, fidus Achates, good friend, great friend, staunch friend, trusted friend, trusty friend

Answer 2

Essays are usually written in the third person.

Answer 3

cold turkey is unhelpful.

Instead of using "You" try using other, less direct words.

"A good friend will always try to do what's best, not only for themselves, but for their true friends as well."
"A good friend will always show respect for their friends...."

Answer 4

by all means and make sure you emphasise the you in the friend.
I am sure you will do an award winning story on your personal life. and you friend