But we hate losing our friends no matter how sour things get. So how do you avoid the resentment trap before it begins? Identifying common conflict grounds is a great place to start. Here's an essential guide to good friendship dos and don'ts for you – and your friends!
• Do stay aware of your friend's feelings and ask if something doesn't seem right. Don't bug her too much and insist on knowing what's wrong – everyone deserves some privacy.
• Do keep an eye on each other when you're both out on the town. Don't feel you must stay glued together all night – you're not her bodyguard.
• Do respect her newest health and fitness craze and support her efforts. Don't start jogging with her at 4 a.m. if you hate it – she can stay on track with or without your participation.
• Do whatever she asks of you to help with her wedding day. Don't catch yourself doing all the grunt work while she spends her time at the spa.
• Do listen to her gripe about her husband or boyfriend. Don't add to her list of negative things to say about him – it's possible she'll hold this against you.
• Do give your honest opinion about her new outfit if she asks – she'll know if you're lying. Don't remind her what you think when she wears it again.
• Do celebrate her victories over a glass of wine. Don't party with her until last call and miss all your morning meetings.
Page 1 of 2 — find more great friendship tips on page 2.
