Friendships enrich our lives in countless ways. But sorting out friendship facts from fiction can be tricky. Should we put the BFF label on every close companion? Do opposites really attract when it comes to choosing friends? Does reaching out first make you needy?

When it comes to friendship dos and don’ts, misconceptions abound. Let’s debunk 5 big friendship myths to reveal the truth – then test your knowledge with a true or false quiz!

Myth #1: You Can Only Have One “Best Friend”

Verdict: FALSE

Many of us feel pressured to pick just one BFF to be our ride-or-die companion. But the truth is, you can have multiple best friends who play different roles in your life!

While you may have one friend who’s been with you since kindergarten or who you share absolutely everything with, that doesn’t mean you can’t have deep connections and “bestie” bonds with newer or less intimate friends too.

Each close friendship adds richness to your life in its own way. Your college roommate gave you a home away from home. Your neighbor friend is always down for impromptu happy hours. Your childhood church friend still knows you better than anyone.

Rather than ranking friends or relegating some to “second tier” status, embrace having multiple besties. Each fulfills you in unique ways. With more true-blue friends in your corner, you’ll have an amazing support network.

Myth #2: Opposites Make the Best Friends

Verdict: FALSE

“Opposites attract” may work for romantic chemistry, but not so much for friendship. Common interests, values, and communication styles make it easier to connect deeply as friends.

You and a buddy with opposite personalities may enjoy each other’s company temporarily. But without some core similarities, you’ll likely drift apart. After all, maintaining a friendship requires effort. It’s easier when you genuinely enjoy the same activities.

However, similarities shouldn’t cross into copycat territory. Studies show having some differences strengths friendship. Contrasting personality traits – like one introvert and one extrovert – allow friends to push each other and grow. Diversity makes friendship more intriguing.

So aim for balance. Be friends with those who share your values but have just enough differences to complement each other. You’ll enjoy a bestie who’s got your back and brings out the best in you!

Myth #3: Childhood Friends Should Stay Friends Forever

Verdict: FALSE

The idea of clinging to childhood best friends feels romantic. But as you change and mature, not all youthful friendships are destined to last.

Sure, some childhood bonds do stand the test of time. When you share formative experiences like growing up on the same street, you form a foundation for lifelong friendship.

However, friends often drift apart after major life changes, like switching schools, moving away, or pursuing different interests as teens and young adults. You and your elementary school BFF may no longer have much in common as adults.

While reminiscing about childhood memories can be fun, the friendship may have run its course. Don’t prolong youth friendships out of obligation. It’s normal for connections to fade as people grow. Focus on nurturing the fulfilling adult friendships that enrich your life right now.

Myth #4: Vulnerability & Communicating Needs Makes You Needy

Verdict: FALSE

Being open and honest with friends about your feelings and needs can feel scary. But it’s actually the foundation for healthy friendships.

Too often, we bottle up emotions, hold back requests for help, or hide parts of ourselves for fear of seeming “needy and desperate.” In reality, true best friends want you to share authentically.

Let’s debunk the myth that expressing your wants and vulnerabilities pushes friends away:

• It builds intimacy when you open up. Being vulnerable with a trusted confidante makes your bond stronger.
  
• Friends can’t read your mind. Telling them what you need feels awkward but avoids misunderstandings.
  
• Speaking up prevents resentment from building if a friendship feels one-sided.
  
• It’s healthier than suffering silently and breeds loyalty when you know a friend has your back.
  

Of course, don’t treat friends like therapists or dominate every conversation about you. But don’t let fear hold you back from forging fulfilling friendships either.

Myth #5: Initiating Plans Means You Value the Friendship More

Verdict: FALSE

In any friendship, people put in different amounts of effort at different times. Making most of the plans doesn’t necessarily mean you’re more invested.

For instance, maybe your friend is going through a busy time at work and can’t coordinate get-togethers. Or you simply have more capacity now to handle logistics. Unless proven otherwise, don’t assume a lopsided effort means they care less.

Similarly, friends declining invitations doesn’t mean they don’t want to spend time together. Assuming lack of interest can breed resentment when they really just have other commitments.

Rather than keeping score, openly communicate your needs and expectations. Check in if the friendship feels one-sided. With trust that each of you values the bond, initiating plans won’t feel like pulling teeth.

True or False Quiz

Now it’s time to see how well you can distinguish friendship facts from fiction! Read each statement below and mark it as true or false:

1. Having just one “best friend forever” is the only type of real, close friendship.
    
   True / False
   
2. Opposites attract when it comes to choosing compatible friends.
    
   True / False
   
3. If you and your childhood best friend have grown apart, you should try to force the friendship to continue.
    
   True / False
   
4. Admitting you feel lonely or need more support from friends makes you seem desperate.
    
   True / False
   
5. If you’re always the one initiating plans with a friend, it means you care more about the friendship.
    
   True / False
   

So how did you do separating the myths from the truth about friendship? Debunking these common misconceptions helps us nurture more fulfilling bonds based on open communication and mutual understanding.

While friendship takes work, the rewards of having people in your corner who “just get you” can’t be measured. May your friendships continue growing stronger as the myths get busted!