Three Types of Friendships That are Important for Happiness

The first type is the “lifelong friend”...

Apparently, happiness isn’t about having hundreds of friends — it’s about having the right mix of people in your corner. A happiness researcher says the most fulfilled people tend to have three specific types of friendships in their lives.

The first type is the “lifelong friend” — the person who has known you through multiple phases of life and gives you a sense of stability and history. Then there’s the “work or growth friend,” someone who motivates you, inspires you and helps push you toward personal or professional goals. Finally, there’s the “fun friend,” the one who brings laughter, spontaneity and a break from everyday stress. Experts say having all three types creates a more balanced social life because no single friend can realistically meet every emotional need.