The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when he discovers that someone else believes in him and is willing to trust him.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The is one of my favorite quotes as I believe in the power of friendship. Looking back on my childhood, I am sure I added a new friend each week and lost two to three in the process. While, I probably grieved the loss of some others were just part of the evolution of life. But as we grow older, it becomes important to surround yourself with people who really matter.
People use the word “friend” loosely and I wonder if it's because they equate friendly to being a friend. The dictionary defines a friend as someone who is attached to another by affection or esteem. When was the last time that you evaluated those persons who hold this esteem title?
Related: Girlfriends are Important
The older we get the more important it is to have the right friends in our circle. Here are nine types of girlfriends that we all need to have in our life.
1. Adventurer
Life is never dull with this one. She's always up for anything and pushes you to live in the moment with no regrets. You call her when you want to break some rules (legally).
2. Confidant
The keeper of your secrets. We all need a friend that we can be vulnerable with because life happens and they understand what “safe space” means. This friend is often the one on your emergency contact list or the one you would call for bail money.
3. Social Butterfly
Photo by Images by Terry LLC
As we get older, the need to hit the town seems to diminish. The social butterfly will keep you in the know of various events and of course encourage you to get off the couch. She is usually a master networker and will introduce you to the right people.
4. Comedian
Laughter is good for the soul and sometimes it is what we have to do to keep from crying. No matter what is happening, she always has a joke and/or funny story for every occasion.
5. Optimist
The optimist always sees the bright side of everything. They see the light at the end of the tunnel and push you to see it also. This friend always has some sort of anecdote to make you feel like a superstar.
6. Work BFF
This is your lunch buddy that encourages you at work and has your back as needed. Most of us spend the majority of our waking hours at work so this friend can help you maintain some balance at work.
7. Male Friend
I know not an actual girl-friend but is often accidentally referred to as “girl” in a conversation. Advice from a member of the opposite sex that you trust is priceless. They can bring a different perspective to the conversation and often give you an insight into the male brain.
8. Leader
Also known as the hustler. They don't know the meaning of the word No. She saw the glass ceiling and is setting her goal to kick through it. She challenges and inspires you to be better.
9. Meanie
This friend is often misunderstood as is pointed out by the ScaryMommy article “Science has Spoken, Your Meanest' Friends are Probably Keepers” Often called mean because she is not a “yes” person and will be brutally honest with you. She always keeps it real and is not fake.
What type of friend are you? Are you living up to the title that has been entrusted to you or are who expecting associate behavior?
This is a good list, I have a great friend who is an explorer!