Friends are often a huge part of who we are as they give insight into ourselves and into the world in general. Friends often influence extracurricular activities and other social interactions. Aside from family, friends have the most profound impact on who we are and who we may become. From childhood when we first learn who is a friend and who is not, casual friendships, a best friend, they all influence our expectations, trust, and our ability to make friends in the upcoming future.

Many people have all positive relationships with friends, keeping them more open to new friends as they continue through life. This type of person usually has casual friendships and close knit friendships, as well as a best friend or two. With mostly good experiences, these people are open to friendships with mostly anyone they meet. Acquaintances, casual friendships, and very close friendships are not out of the ordinary, and most of the time the balance between all of these friendships is achieved. People who are open and trusting usually have an easy time making and keeping friends, maybe too easy!

There are other people who don't have as many really close friends, but have many casual friends and relationships. These types of friends are usually because of hectic lifestyles, work schedules, or someone who is focused on family matters. Casual friends or acquaintances are easier to fit into a hectic schedule because they don't require much one on one time. There is nothing wrong with casual relationships, they work well when someone is really focused on other things and likes to go to social outings every once in a while but doesn't want friends who are too needy. Casual friendships are actually quite common, most people can think of someone they interact with casually and that really is a friend.

There are also other people who have nothing but really close friends, sometimes friends that they have been friends with since childhood. This type of person usually finds a best friend or two or three, and relies on them for mostly everything friendship related. Close knit friendships are great, but they also tend to be the most volatile because they are so intense. There is nothing wrong with having a best friend, but sometimes people can feel too much pressure being the one and only.

Everyone needs friends, as they offer a superb support system that cannot be obtained anywhere else. As humans, we are naturally drawn to other people, to people who have similar backgrounds, careers, or hobbies. The level on which we connect with each person really is a little bit different, and that's good.  Friends give us a little more insight, and teach us a bit more about ourselves. 

Any friends are good, but a mix of casual friendships, best friends, and casual acquaintances really is the best set up. Each type of friendship offers something different, offers us a chance to explore sides of ourselves that maybe we couldn't with another group of friends. Friends are amazing, and everyone should have at least a couple of real friends, no matter how close or casual they may be.