Everyone likes to have that one person they can confide in and have the most fun with. It’s true that you can find this in a life partner but you also need a friend or two to be there for you.

It is very important to surround yourself with the right people because of the role they play in your happiness, success, and confidence, but who exactly is in that circle?

Research shows that having a strong friend group increases longevity and even reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  It is true that many women do not like to have a large number of friends yet is important that your close-knit friends have one or more of these qualities.

Here are 7 types of friends you need to surround yourself with especially when you are in your twenties and thirties.

1.The Confidant

Everyone needs a confidant. You need that one person that you know you can tell anything to and your secrets are safe with them. This friend understands how much you trust her, she knows all of your dirty little secrets and has kept every single one of them under lock and key.

2. The Fun One

When you’re having a bad day and in need of a good laugh this is the friend you turn to. All of your funniest stories probably include her some way or another.

She also the friend who asks you to go on a spontaneous road trip and is always down for an adventure.  She gets you out of your comfort zone and puts you in a great mood.

3. The Listener

Sometimes you just need to vent — you don’t want advice, you don’t want to know if you’re right or wrong, you just want someone to listen. This is that friend. It’s important to let out your emotions and know that you don’t need to carry the burden alone.

4.The Motivator

This friend is always pushing you to be the best you can be and achieve your goals. There are always going to be times when you’re gonna be down on yourself when you need that extra push. They’re like your cheerleader, someone who is always pushing you and really believes in you,” she says.

5. The Counselor

This is the one that gives the best advice. She’s been there and done just about everything. For some reason, you are comfortable discussing your most private thoughts with her that you wouldn’t dare share with anyone else.

She’s the level-headed one who you can vent to about anything and she will not judge you. You feel so much better after your conversations with her.

6. The Older One

This is your older friend, the one you go to for all of your major life advice. She’s had a lot of experience and has been in your shoes before, so she has a lot of wisdom to offer. Whether you’re deciding to make a major career change or take your relationship to the next level, she’s got an answer.

7. The Blunt One

This is the one that will tell you like it is, even when you don’t want to hear the truth. But she’ll tell you in a loving, sisterly kind of way ( and sometimes, she’ll just give it to you with no filter because the situation calls for it).

This is the one that when everyone else is walking on eggshells around you (to avoid hurting your feelings), she’ll tell you exactly how she feels, take it or leave it.

Credit: fabwoman.ng

Photo credit: Essence