3. Strive for quality, not quantity
It's hard enough to keep up one or two friendships, but when you've got a dozen "best friends," staying close can be exhausting. Mendelson says his study showed that we get more benefits from a few close friendships than many casual ones. Consider which of your friendships fulfill you most and put special care into keeping those relationships alive. Let casual acquaintances be just that -- casual.
4. Treasure the old
Long-standing friendships are often the most beneficial, says Mendelson. Who else can give you parenting tips while referencing the time -- after that fight with your mother -- when you swore that when you were a mother, you'd never...? "There is a comfort level that comes from having a history," says Mendelson. "After lasting so long, it stands to reason that the friendship will be more resilient when problems arise." Friendships come and go, so know that when one withstands the test of time, it's worth hanging on to.
5. Make the time
Yes, your life is packed enough, but you need your friends. They keep you real, keep you sane, remind you of the good and bad times, they remind you of who you are. There will never be enough hours in the day to do all the things you need to, but time for friends is something you need to pencil in. Then you can discuss all of those things you can never get around to with a compassionate pal who can relate to all your troubles and triumphs.
Here are the top 10 reasons you need a best friend.
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