The Types Of Friends We All Need
Health, May 2003

The lastest research shows that people who have good friendships and social support over a lifetime have fewer health problem and live longer than those who do not. Here are the seven types friends you should have.

 
1. The "best friend". This is the person who knows your darkest secrets, your most embarrassing moments, and your most painful insecurities. They also love you anyway--even though they know all these things.
2. The "alter ego". This is the person whose life is the opposite of yours. If you're single, he or she is married with a family, if you're an adventurer, he or she is a homebody. They help broaden your horizons by exposing you to a variety of different circumstances.
3. The "work pal". Since most of us spend more time at work than anywhere else, this is the person you can trust and talk to at work on your worst days. They let you vent...and don't pass it on in the gossip circle.
4. The "go-to girl/guy". This is the person you "go to" when you really need to make a tough decision and can't make up your mind. They will tell you the right choice about spending money, taking a vacation, or whatever mundane thing seems overwhelming. They only have your best interest at heart, and sometimes they'll help you take the steps (e.g., book the vacation) to really make your decision a reality.
5. The "cerebral match". This is the person who challenges you intellectually. They call you out, don't let you off the hook--whatever it is that you need, they will tell you the truth on your level. You have mutual respect for each other.
6. The "childhood friend". This is the person that isn't necessarily your oldest friend, they just have been through several life stages and changes with you. They love you when you are a poor college student as much as they love you when you become successful later in life.
7. The "mirror image". This is the person who is just like you, and your lives seem to mirror each other's in so many ways. You share similar experiences, so when weird things happen in your life, talking to that person helps you know you are not going crazy.