The 9 reasons our best friends make life worth living.

There really is no substitute.

I’m pretty lucky, because I can say that I’ve got a best friend.

In fact, I’m so lucky I can say I have more than one.

These lovely ladies have been in my life since we were in Year 1 and we have been there for each other throughout the good times (and the bad) ever since.

A best friend is someone who just gets you, and there is absolutely no substitute for that.

Because having a best friend simply makes life better: It enhances the highs and takes the edge off the lows.

Let me count the ways:

1. They don’t judge.

That’s not to say you can do anything you please, but a best friend will always try and see it from your point of view. Sure, it may not be the way that they would necessarily do it, but they’ll allow you to go ahead without judgment.

Just as an FYI, you should know that this post is sponsored by SodaStream. But all opinions expressed by the author are 100% authentic and written in their own words.

2. They’ll come get you at 3am (geography permitting).

If, for whatever reason, your whole world is collapsing (say a guy dumps you or your car breaks down etc etc etc), even at 3am, your bestie will come and rescue you.

3. You have an exercise buddy.

And an exercise buddy you can be yourself with. An exercise buddy keeps you motivated, is someone you can chat to, helps to pass the time more quickly and you can also keep each other in check.

4. They are good for your mental health.

No, really. It’s science. Good friends make us happy, making our serotonin levels soar and making us happier generally and mentally healthier.

Nothing beats laughing to improve wellbeing. Best friends, by their very nature, often have the same (sometimes warped) sense of humour as you, and catching up always makes us feel better.

Related: While you’re leaning into your career, don’t forget to lean on your friends.

5. They encourage and motivate us.

Your best friend is the one who tells you that yes, you CAN start studying at that career you’ve always talked about. They are the ones that encourage you to put in an application for that dream job.

Your best friend makes your life all that much better by helping you put that spring in your step and to WANT to get out and there and do stuff. Quite simply, it’ll be fun because they’re there.

6. They listen to us.

They truly do – they aren’t just giving us face time while secretly wishing we’d leave so they can watch the next House of Cards episode. If you’ve got something to say, they want to hear it. More than that, they want to help fix it if possible.

Related: How to make new friends as an adult (without being a weirdo).

7. They grieve with us.

As our lives become more challenging, as we grow older and experience more, it is inevitable that we will see each other’s loved ones pass away. Only a best friend can support you and “get” you like no one else quite can during these sad times.

8. They celebrate with us.

In ALL of the ways. Mainly though, they make your birthday a night to remember, Christmas Day extra special because they make an appearance and when you get that promotion at work, your best friend is the one to take you out for some well-deserved champagne and dancing.

9. They provide a level of intimacy usually associated with a life partner.

It’s not uncommon to hear that people love their best friend as much as they do their partner. This is because, quite honestly, best friends are also often the loves of our lives. Not only that, they actually stick around for life.

If you are lucky enough to have a best friend, remember that you too need to put in the work to maintain the friendship.

Because quite simply, best friends make life better.

Mamamia’s Holly Wainwright understands why besties are so important – her closest friendship spans decades and continents. 

How do your best friends make life better?

For your chance to WIN 1 of 5 SodaStream relax and recharge prize packs click here.

Leading the market in technological advancements and quality products, the SodaStream system enables users to carbonate water, add flavour, and enjoy better-for-you soda water or flavoured sparkling water at home, just the way they like it. SodaStream is the world’s largest manufacturer, distributor and marketer of home carbonation systems with Drinks Makers being sold in over 60,000 retail stores, in 45 countries worldwide.

Today, SodaStream is leading a revolution against bottled and canned beverages, providing consumers with better-for-you and better-for-the-planet alternatives to store bought drinks.

SodaStream – make water exciting with SMART. SIMPLE. BUBBLES.

[raw][/raw]