DEFINE YOUR FRIENDS
by: Tiki Bee

Not every acquaintance is destined to be your life long soul mate, supporting you through work, personal and relationship crisis alike. It makes more sense to categorize them by relying on a wide variety of different people to fulfill the many kinds of needs in your life.  The BENEFIT?  You’ll be less likely to make unrealistic demands on any one person.  Here are five most important friends for you to include in your elite circle:

THE OLD FRIEND

No matter how different you may be now (marriage, kids, and careers) they know all about the skeletons in your closet (the one night stands, your DUI and who you lost your virginity) and loves you anyway.  There is great comfort in having the history there.

*Beware

You may have outgrown each other in certain areas to the point of not understanding one another choices. Hopefully they will keep an open mind and it doesn’t get in the way so you can pick where you left.

THE EVENT FRIEND

Whether it is a new art gallery or the hottest spot this friend is your go to person for socializing, able to rev up party in various social settings.

*Beware

This friend might have other friends that are also a part of the social scene, which may leave you lost in the sauce if you are not cliques. Hopefully you can hold your own.

THE BOSOM BUDDY

It’s two in the morning and you were just on Face Book / Twitter and found out your ex is engaged. This friend is you call immediately, vent your frustrations, and then help you plot a serious comeback.

*Beware

Make sure this friend is trust worthy; you don’t want all of your business (dirty laundry) out there!

THE WORK PAL

You and your boss are butting heads about how to deal with a new client, and you don’t know what to do. Your work pal is the objective insider who can help you strategize about career issues.

*Beware

Make sure this friend isn’t competing for your job and strategize against you. This could be your worst friend.

THE CASUAL FRIEND

You two may not have tons in common, but she’s always up for sharing a last- minute drink or flick or joining you for a run in the park. Keep her on speed dial for times when need company.

*Beware

This friend will only casually love or associate with you. Don’t expect this friend to go out of their way for you.