Why It Is So Important to Have These 7 Types of Friends in Your Life

Nobody knows you quite like the people who grew up with you. Your friend from way back when knows why you love boy bands, where you had your first kiss, and who took you to prom. That familiarity goes a long way, and surrounding yourself with people who knew you early on can bring you back to your truest self.

Sure, most people listen to some degree, but it's important to find a friend who actually takes in what you've said — without judgment — and does what she can to help you fix the problem. The key to creating that kind of relationship? Being a good listener yourself. When you're curious and attentive, you'll draw in others like you.

She's always looking for a new adventure, she pushes you to challenge yourself, and she fully embraces who she is. That fearless, up-for-anything friend is crucial when it comes to staying social, moving forward, and discovering new experiences.

Everyone needs to be called out sometimes, and she's the person you can count on to tell you the bare, honest truth — even if it's not exactly what you'd like to hear. Surrounding yourself with "yes" people can be dangerous, and a friend who isn't afraid to break out the tough love means you'll always have someone to save you from yourself.

Getting through a 9-to-5 is all the more enjoyable when you've got a BFF by your side. It's nice to have someone else who understands your office bubble and loves the neighborhood happy-hour spot as much as you do. The only issue? You can't always be entirely open, since you need to maintain some sense of professionalism in your relationship.

When you need that honest perspective of a man, enter your best guy friend, who can help to balance you out from all those women in your life.