For a woman, having a great male friend is priceless. These guys are laid back and simply a joy to be around. You know you can count on them to have your back. It’s a different dynamic than your relationship with women, and they can teach you a lot about the male species:
They’re honest: No matter how many hours you spend with your girlfriends dissecting your recent conversation with a man, they won’t get it as well as your guy friend does. They don’t beat around the bush when it comes to giving their opinion of him. Be sure to introduce the two at some point, too. You might want to think twice about the relationship if you’re dating a jealous man who takes you away from your guy friends.
They love the real you: When you’re with your guy friends, they want to hang out with the “real” you–they love your authentic self, that’s why you’re friends in the first place. Some women think they have to put on a front to impress a man. When you’re spending time with your best friend, he reminds you that you don’t need to be fake to impress people. Joking around with him reminds you that you want a partner who loves all your quirks.
They communicate differently: Miscommunication can plague a relationship. If you have a good guy friend, you’ll realize that men sometimes think differently than women do, so they may not catch subtle signals that we send out. You say what you mean to your male friends, so why not do the same to a guy you’re interested in? Playing games can be flirtatious, but it’s not a foundation to support a lasting relationship.
They’re around when times get tough: If your guy friends can show up to be with you when you need them, then so can a potential boyfriend. When you’re looking for a partner, find someone who will be there to support you when you need it, just like your best friend. Your male friendships remind you that you deserve love and respect from ALL men.
– Barbara Bent
