6. A fresh perspective
We are all individuals, with different experiences and opinions, but having a best friend to share things with can help us learn new things about ourselves. The things they share with us can open our eyes to new ideas and ways to think about the world around us, explains Belleghem. "By bringing a fresh perspective to a problem, things have a better chance of changing," she says. Best friends can help us find those "A-ha!" moments that lead to solving problems.
7. Life lessons
When a close friend does something you disagree with, you're more likely to confront them and discuss what has upset you than if it's a person you aren't as familiar with. Getting through this with a close friend helps to prepare you for other times in life where you will need to face a difficult situation, Belleghem explains. "Now you have this skill in your life skills bag," she says.
8. Loyalty
Loyalty means never having to worry about someone spilling your secrets or talking about you behind your back. Best friends equal built-in trust, Belleghem explains. Most likely, you've spent years building your bond, which just gets stronger over time. "A loyal friend will be on your team no matter what. They will be honest with you, but won't betray you," she says.
9. Personal growth
Having a best friend means sharing experiences, Belleghem explains. Sometimes, when we get stuck in our own routines, it's nice to hear about what other people are doing. "A close friend of mine who didn't have kids opened my eyes to new things," Belleghem says. Often we can live vicariously through our close friends and learn about things we may not have thought about doing.
10. The best sounding board
One of the greatest things about having a best friend is being able to share -- everything. They are the ones to whom we tell things we wouldn't dream of telling anyone else -- our greatest fears and biggest mistakes. Being able to share these intimate details about our lives helps to normalize whatever has happened, Belleghem explains. "Fear or discomfort is diffused when you share it with a friend," she says.
Read more: Is your friend out of control?
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