The 10 types of friends every woman should have

The 10 types of friends every woman should have

They say you should be able to count your true friends on one hand. But with the web connecting you with hundreds of virtual mates, is it time to get a reality check?

As your social networking friendship count soars, it’s easy to kid yourself that you’re popular. But a study has just revealed that the number of Facebook friends you have bears no reflection on how many you have in real life.

Here are the 10 types of friends every woman should have in her life.

(1) The lifestyle buddy

You take your toddlers to the same playgroup, share a love of shopping and talk for hours about, well, everything in your lives. Her likes and dislikes mirror yours and, if she suggests a restaurant, outfit or film, you know you’ll love it.

When faced with a tough decision, you always ask yourself what she would do – if you have something to moan about, you know she’ll share your gripes. If you’re lacking a lifestyle buddy in your life right now, they’re easy to meet – just keep an eye out at all your favourite places.

(2) The opposites attract friend

“Some of the healthiest and most rewarding friendships we can have are with our opposite,” says Sally.

“Often it’s someone who’s a lot older or younger than you are – an older friend can offer good advice, while a younger friend reminds you of a more fun-loving version of yourself. They’re usually the best person to bring a fresh perspective to our lives.”

(3) The mutual appreciation friend

Everyone appreciates a compliment now and again, and there’s no better compliment than one from someone you admire. You love her taste, her style and her friends – in return, she loves yours. She’s always the first to notice your new haircut and recent weight loss, and she’s the friend you drag to events when you want to make a good impression.

(4) The comfort blanket friend

You’ve known her forever and a day; through bad haircuts, bad break-ups and garish make-up. Your families are friends and, even if you drift apart from time to time, you know she’s there.

Call her when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed by your job or your family to be transported instantly back to your childhood. If you’ve lost touch, don’t Facebook her, pick up the phone instead.

(5) The good time girlfriend

Your other half might not entirely approve of her, but she’s guaranteed to help you forget all your troubles. Wild and extrovert, she gives you the confidence to let your hair down and let loose. She doesn’t shock easily and would never judge you.

Call her when you fancy being footloose and fancy free and, if you haven’t met her yet, she’ll be the one in the middle of the dance floor.

(6) The not for sharing friend

She’s not part of your usual crowd, but this friend shares aspects of your life that no-one else does and you like to keep her all to yourself.

You share things with her that you just wouldn’t mention to your other friends – your love of gardening, DIY manuals and your celebrity crush.

(7) The 8-5 friend

9-5 friends are often the most important ones in your life. This friendship requires strong foundations and an even thicker skin.

You’ll clash, console and commiserate together, and she’s heard you moan about mother, husband and boss alike. This friend helps you get through the darkest of work days, so if you don’t have one, keep an eye out for them by the coffee machine or photocopier.

(8) The through thick and thin friend

It feels like you’ve been friends forever (even if you haven’t) and they’re the strongest pillar in your support network. She knows the good, bad and ugly about you and hasn’t run a mile. People often comment how “like peas in a pod” you are and they’re right.

(9) The three’s not a crowd friend

Who said three has to be a crowd? Sometimes it’s the perfect number. You get two friends for the price of one and, if your other half is willing, why not make it a couple of couples!

(10) The male friend

There are times when your girlfriends just don’t cut it and you need to look further afield.

Male friends are on the up with 18-24 year olds, being nearly four times more likely to have a friend of the opposite sex than people over 55.

Male friends give you a great insight into the male mentality and never mince words about your choice of outfit. If you don’t have one already, make finding a male friend your mission.