In life, it’s impossible to get along with everyone—but there are some people you should definitely make an effort to stay on good terms with.
These aren’t just about avoiding drama; they’re the types of relationships that can make your life easier, more fulfilling, and even healthier, according to psychology.
Whether it’s a supportive coworker, a neighbor who always has your back, or someone who inspires you, these connections hold surprising value.
Let’s take a look at eight types of people you’ll want to keep in your corner—and why it’s worth the effort.
1) The mentor
Mentors are invaluable individuals in our lives.
They are often older, wiser, and have trodden the path we’re walking on now.
Their wealth of knowledge, experience, and wisdom can guide us through the trials and tribulations that life throws at us.
Being on good terms with a mentor can provide us with a solid support system.
They can offer us advice when we’re unsure, encourage us when we’re down, and celebrate our victories alongside us.
It’s not always about being related or working in the same field.
A mentor can be anyone who inspires you, pushes you towards growth, and helps you in your journey towards achieving your goals.
They might be a senior colleague at work, a family friend, or even a professor from university.
Regardless of who they are, maintaining a positive relationship with them can open doors to opportunities, provide invaluable guidance, and help shape our lives for the better.
2) The optimist
Optimists are the individuals who always see the glass as half full.
They possess an infectious positive energy that can uplift our spirits and motivate us to keep going, even when things get tough.
Studies show that positivity is linked to emotional and mental wellness.
True enough, positive people can help us shift our perspective, encouraging us to view hurdles as opportunities rather than setbacks.
They remind us of the potential for growth that lies within every challenge.
Imagine a rainy day dampening your plans for a picnic. While you may be disappointed, an optimist would quickly suggest an indoor game day or movie marathon instead, turning what could have been a gloomy day into a fun and memorable one.
So, keep that cheerful friend close – their positivity is more beneficial than you might realize.
3) The challenger
Challengers may not always be the easiest people to get along with.
They’re the ones who push boundaries, question norms, and aren’t afraid to dispute your ideas or beliefs.
While it might seem confrontational at times, being on good terms with a challenger can be incredibly beneficial for our personal growth.
They encourage us to step out of our comfort zones and think critically about our perspectives.
It’s through these challenging discussions and debates that we often find ourselves learning and growing the most.
In fact, as having friends who challenge us can lead to increased resilience and personal development.
Picture a friend who always questions your decisions or a colleague who constantly pushes for better results.
They might seem tough, but their intention is not to bring you down, but to help you rise above your limitations.
Embrace these challengers in your life.
They can open your mind, strengthen your beliefs, and make you a more adaptable and resilient individual.
4) The brutally honest
Let’s face it, honesty can often be a bitter pill to swallow.
Yet, those who are brutally honest are a crucial part of our lives.
They’re the ones who tell it like it is, without sugarcoating or tiptoeing around the truth.
Whether it’s a harsh reality check or a much-needed wake-up call, these individuals have the courage to speak the truth even when it’s uncomfortable or hard for us to hear.
Think about that friend who calls you out when you’re wrong or that family member who doesn’t shy away from giving you tough love.
Their words may sting at times, but they are often the ones we turn to when we need an unbiased opinion or genuine advice.
5) The empath
Empaths are the people in our lives who understand us on a deeper level.
They are the ones who can sense our emotions, understand our feelings, and validate our experiences without judgment.
They’re the friends who sit with us through our darkest hours, listen to our deepest fears, and offer comfort when we need it most.
They don’t just hear our words; they feel our emotions and offer empathy instead of mere sympathy.
Imagine a friend who can sense your sadness without you having to utter a word, or a family member who always knows when to lend a comforting shoulder.
Their ability to connect with us on an emotional level is a gift that should be cherished.
6) The similar soul
There’s a certain comfort in being around people who share the same tastes, interests, or life experiences as us.
These similar souls offer a sense of familiarity and understanding that can be incredibly comforting and affirming.
They’re the ones who laugh at the same jokes, enjoy the same movies, or understand your struggles because they’ve been through something similar.
There’s no need for lengthy explanations or justifications because they just ‘get’ you.
Think about that friend who shares your love for vintage music or that coworker who also struggles with balancing work and family life.
These shared experiences and interests can create strong bonds and lasting friendships.
In fact, the similarity-attraction effect suggests that people are generally more attracted to others who are similar to themselves in important respects.
Keeping good terms with these similar souls can provide a sense of belonging and acceptance.
It’s comforting to know that there’s someone else out there who understands your quirks, passions, and challenges, making life a little less lonely and a lot more enjoyable.
7) The fun enthusiast
Fun enthusiasts are those lively and energetic individuals who know how to turn any situation into a fun-filled experience.
They are the life of the party, the spontaneous adventurers, or simply the ones who never fail to make you smile.
These are the friends who drag you to karaoke on a weeknight, plan surprise picnics, or engage in impromptu dance-offs at home.
Their contagious laughter and bright spirits can make even mundane tasks seem like an exciting adventure.
Remember that cousin who turned a family reunion into a delightful treasure hunt?
Or that friend whose hilarious anecdotes always lighten the mood?
These fun enthusiasts remind us to not take life too seriously and to cherish the joy in everyday moments.
Maintaining a positive relationship with these individuals can add a dash of amusement and joy to our lives.
8) The supportive ally
Above all, it’s essential to surround ourselves with supportive allies.
These are the people who stand by your side, believe in your dreams, and cheer you on every step of the way.
They’re the ones who give you a pep talk when you’re doubting yourself, lend a hand when you’re struggling, and celebrate your achievements like they’re their own.
They see your potential, even when you fail to recognize it yourself. Their unwavering support can be the difference between giving up and pressing on.
Final thoughts
Staying on good terms with the right people can make a big difference in your life.
Whether it’s for emotional support, practical help, or just creating a more positive environment, these connections are worth maintaining.
At the end of the day, building good relationships with these types of people isn’t just about them—it’s about making your life easier, more fulfilling, and a little less stressful. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
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