http://dearsugar.com/ Just ask. en http://dearsugar.com/2464096 <p>Even if they're living under the same roof or have plans to meet up after work, I know many couples that still touch base multiple times throughout the day. I think it's really sweet, but communication overload can be irritating for friends and co-workers when the incessant phone calls become disruptive. When I'm in a relationship, I like to share all the excitement of my day with him in person, but what about you? Are you and your significant other in touch throughout the day? And if so, how often do you typically talk?</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/45_2008/4594d9439e445005_talk.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline center image xlarger" width="400" height="266"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2464096#comment Communication Friends phone call Relationship Protocol Tue, 04 Nov 2008 21:13:40 -0800 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2464096 http://dearsugar.com/2419832 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2419832"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2419832',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2419832');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/43_2008/5bce452c6bb8eb1c_pushy.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image xlarger" width="266" height="400"></span>If you take a second to note of the different personalities of your friends, I bet some of them couldn't be more opposite. But that's one of the great things about having a big group of friends — everyone is different. In my group, I have one incredibly pushy friend and one incredibly passive friend. While I love them both, each personality trait can be equally draining. My pushy friend is needy and opinionated while my passive friend never makes an effort and waits for everyone to come to her, but I of course accept them for who they are. I'm sure we all have a little bit of both in us, but which personality trait do you most relate to? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2419832" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Passive or Pushy? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Passive</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Pushy</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Neither </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> I'm posses both traits equally.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please share. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2419832" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2419832#comment Dear Poll Friends personality traits Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2419832 http://dearsugar.com/2412169 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/43_2008/c6e37addb09212d1_Woman-Upset.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xxlarge" height="451" width="300"></span>Just because you know someone really well, doesn’t mean that they can’t surprise you from time to time — in fact, many would say a little mystery in a relationship is a good thing! But what happens when what they surprise you with isn’t so great? If what they do is a <a href="http://dearsugar.com/2376760" >disappointment</a>, or worse, a betrayal, I wonder if it’s possible to see the person in the same light again. Just as we can’t forget the good memories, it can be difficult to erase the bad ones too. So ladies, please share your experiences. Do tell: Have a friend’s actions or behavior ever made you suddenly think differently of them? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2412169#comment Disappointment Do Tell Friends Friendship Surprise Sat, 25 Oct 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2412169 http://dearsugar.com/2381679 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2381679"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2381679',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2381679');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/3ebbb522eff58b81_Couples.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xlarger" height="400" width="297"></span>Life seems to have a peculiar ebb and flow when it comes to love. Sometimes it's as if everyone I know is either in a serious relationship or on their way to one, while at other times everyone seems to be on the brink of breaking up and doing the single thing. What does it look like in your social scene right now?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2381679" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Are Most of Your Friends Single or in a Relationship?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Most of my friends are totally taken!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Lots of singles!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Actually, it’s pretty even.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> It changes so often, it’s impossible to say. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2381679" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2381679#comment Dating Dear Poll Friends Relationships Single Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2381679 http://dearsugar.com/2381280 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2381280"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2381280',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2381280');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>About two years ago, I entered a bleak time in my life and fell into a depression. Fortunately, I was able to make it through, and I feel much stronger today. However, at the time it was difficult to just leave the house, and I really distanced myself from many of my friends. In fact, one of my closest friends was going through her own struggles, dealing with a terrible breakup and the loss of a grandparent. More than once she called me crying and I failed to return the call, too lost in my sadness. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/509b9c4a5e8a3bea_Woman-Thinking.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image xlarge" height="315" width="315"></span></p> <p>In the midst of this, it was also her birthday and she begged me to come out with her. With much trepidation, I said yes, but when the day finally rolled around, I totally flaked. Needless to say, that was her last straw. She wrote me an email basically telling me that she was sorry I was unhappy but there was no excuse for my behavior. That email as well as some other incidents forced me to see things differently, and with the help of my therapist, I was able to start putting my life back together. Eight months ago I reconciled with my friend. I told her I was so regretful of the pain I caused her, and though it took some talking, we worked it out.</p> <p>But since then she's been very passive aggressive with me. She often won't call me back. And when I ask, she says, "Now you know how it feels." And she's always quick to remind me of how I hurt her, and even puts me down. She's such a good person, but she seems to have these bursts of anger towards me. I take full responsibility for what I did, and I was even willing to put up with this to some extent, but two years after the fact, it's getting old. I don't feel like this is warranted, but maybe I'm wrong. Do you think I deserve this? Or is it time for me to be forgiven? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2381280" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Sunday Confessional: I Hurt Her, But She Won&#039;t Let It Go</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided — Please share. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2381280" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2381280#comment apologies Depression Friends Friendship Hurtful Sunday Confessional Sun, 19 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2381280 http://dearsugar.com/2376760 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/aeb539447f7572e9_Woman-Thinking.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image xlarge" height="315" width="315"></span>In my book, there’s never a good excuse to cheat, but sadly I’ve had friends who’ve cheated, and they’ve always managed to come up with multiple excuses. Even if I can understand their rationale, I still want them to stop. It goes without saying that when I’ve been in the position of supporting a friend who’s cheating, it’s been extremely difficult for me. And yet, I also see it as a time when a friend needs me most, so I can’t just walk away. I support the person, not the action, I suppose. But is that wrong? If a friend is doing something as damaging as cheating, should we turn our backs on them until they turn around? Or should we support them since it’s not our responsibility to judge? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2376760#comment A Do or a Don't cheating Friends Friendship support Fri, 17 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2376760 http://dearsugar.com/2370104 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/Women-Exhausted.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image xlarger" height="400" width="266"></span>An article in <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com" target="_blank">the Huffington Post</a> earlier this week noted how difficult it can be to find good friends, which is something we've all dealt with I'm sure. In response, the article offers some tips for successful friendships, the last of which I found particularly relevant. <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sophie-keller/how-happy-is-your-friends_b_134245.html" target="_blank">It states</a>: </p> <blockquote><p>Before you spend time with a friend check out how your energy feels on a scale of 1 to 10. Then once you have spent time with them, notice if you feel more energized or drained and again, give it a number between 1 and 10. If they have drained you and you seem to feel that each time you are with them over a long period then perhaps it is time to move on from that friendship. If you feel energized after your interaction or time together, then fantastic, that is a nourishing relationship.</p></blockquote> <p>I've noticed this phenomenon in my own life. After time with some of my friends, my mood is immediately perked whereas there are others I tend to avoid spending time with because I know I'll feel drained afterwards. It's not that they're bad people; they just tend to demand more energy and leave me feeling anything but nourished. Do you have any friends or people in your life that leave you feeling like this, too? If so, how do you deal with them? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2370104#comment energy Friends friendships News to Me The Huffington Post Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2370104 http://dearsugar.com/2366029 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/42_2008/Gossip-Girl.xlarger.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image xlarger" height="400" width="249"></span>Monday night's episode of <a href="http://buzzsugar.com/2364111" >Gossip Girl</a> was filled with the usual hijinks as best friends Serena and Blair found themselves competing for an opportunity to make it into Yale. But their particular method of competition involved consciously humiliating the other and trying to make each other look bad — not exactly friendly, to say the least. </p> <p>Admittedly, their drama was over the top in true <b>Gossip Girl</b> fashion, but still, the idea of sacrificing a friendship for a personal opportunity lingered with me. In fact, I <i>have</i> had friends make me look bad so they could look better, and though it showed me their true colors, it still felt awful. Have you ever been in a situation like this? Are there any circumstances for which you'd potentially sacrifice a friend?</p> <p>Photos courtesy of <a href="http://cwtv.com" target="_blank">The CW</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2366029#comment Competition Friends Friendship Gossip Girl Wed, 15 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2366029 http://dearsugar.com/2270825 <p>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>I'm really confused about my relationship with one of my male friends. He's gay, so there's nothing even remotely romantic about this dilemma. My problem is that I'm not sure whether or not he values my friendship as much as I value his. He's a photographer and we initially began hanging out when he asked me to model for a couple of his projects. He was so happy with my work that he ended up using me as his model in the vast majority of his projects after that. In working together, we became very good friends.<span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/41_2008/Confused-Woman.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="262" width="350"></span></p> <p>While we always have a good time together, he just doesn't seem to make any effort towards our friendship when it doesn't have to do with him telling me about the next project he has coming up. Now, I know the obvious answer at this point would be that he's just using me for his work, but it's a little more complicated than that. When we <i>do</i> hang out, he always tells me how much he values me as a friend. In fact, a few months ago he even suggested that we become roommates! He's always struck me as completely genuine when he says these things. </p> <p>We met up again recently, and I felt as though I was a burden the whole time. When I brought the roommate subject up again, he seemed completely disinterested. He does have a ridiculously large circle of friends so I can appreciate the fact that he has a lot of other things going on in his life, but I just wonder why I seem to get the cold shoulder sometimes. To be honest I'm getting a little fed up with it. What now? </p> <p>— Friend or No Norah</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/2270825">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2270825#comment Advice confused Friends Friendship Relationships You Asked Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2270825 http://dearsugar.com/2276285 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/41_2008/Women-computer.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="428" width="285"></span>In another effort to try and meet someone, your friend has signed up for an online dating site. And she’s actually been getting a ton of dates, but the problem is the guys never call her for date number two. </p> <p>She’s come to you crying so many times now that you’re starting to get annoyed. You’ve been blaming it on the guys, so you offer to take a look at her profile to see why she might be attracting the wrong type. When you sign on together, you’re shocked to see a picture of your friend from five years ago when she was forty pounds lighter. Even worse, her profile is filled with facts about herself that just aren't true. She’s asking your opinion, so how do you handle this? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2276285#comment Dating Friends Handle This online dating Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2276285 http://dearsugar.com/2181649 <p>Throughout college and even after, my friends were all in the same age range, but over time I've found that the ages of my friends drastically vary. I've grown closer to the younger siblings of my friends, but also befriended women who are closer to my mom’s age than my own. And frankly, I appreciate the variation. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Women-Friends-Age.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="332" width="500"></span></p> <p>It’s reassuring to have a woman in my life who’s already been through it all tell me I’m going to be OK, and likewise, my younger friends remind me that being idealistic is a good thing! So where do you stand when it comes to having friends who are much older or younger than you? Are you for it? Or do you find it strange? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2181649#comment age age difference Friends Where Do You Stand Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2181649 http://dearsugar.com/2169519 <p>Since starting a graduate program away from home, you decided to reach out to as many peers as possible to build your network. In doing so, you quickly became friends with your class partner. Although your friendship is relegated to school, he does talk about his wife from time to time. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Women-Classroom.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="320" width="320"></span></p> <p>One night before class you run into him and decide to get coffee. As soon as you’re alone, he suddenly starts talking about his uncertainties about his marriage and his desires to experience life; at one point he leans in for an awkward hug. You immediately feel uncomfortable and make an excuse to leave. Later that night after class you get an email from him expressing his apologies for his strange behavior — he's just been stressed out. He wants to make sure that he hasn’t damaged your friendship, which he deeply values. When you don't respond, you get another email the next day. His urgency is making you feel even more rattled, but you have to work with him in class next week so how do <i>you</i> handle this? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2169519#comment awkward Friends Handle This School Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2169519 http://dearsugar.com/2171122 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2171122"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2171122',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2171122');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Woman-News.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="320" width="320"></span>You and your closest friend have finally been fortunate enough to live in the same city for the past year, for the first time since high school. She moves around a lot and is always searching for the next best place. It’s been amazing having her around and your life feels full in a way you just can’t get from a boyfriend. But when she says she needs to meet you to talk, you’re instantly worried. Would it be worse if . . . </p> <p>This: She’s decided to move again, but this time overseas? She doesn’t have a real game plan or know when she’ll be back. You hope it's successful, but it seems like she's just trying to escape.</p> <p>Or . . .</p> <p>That: It turns out she’s getting back together with her ex-boyfriend, the one she's taken years to get over? You want her to be happy, but not at the expense of her mental well-being. </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2171122" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>This or That: Bailing For Better Scenery or a Boy? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> This — She’s off again for who knows how long.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> That — She’s not going anywhere, but she might as well be for as much as you’ll see her. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2171122" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2171122#comment Best Friend Decisions Friends This or That Fri, 03 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2171122 http://dearsugar.com/2150837 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/40_2008/Couple-Friends.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="228" width="350"></span>Doing just about anything with a group can be tricky. The more people, the more opinions and personalities are butting up against one another. And combining two groups together can upset any kind of balance that’s already been achieved, which is often the case when you try to combine your friends with your boyfriend’s. Even so, I think it’s worth a try, since establishing a group of mutual friends is completely convenient when it comes to socializing. What do you think? Do you mix your friends with his? Or are they both fairly separate? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2150837#comment Friends Friendship group of people Relationship Protocol Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2150837 http://dearsugar.com/slideshow/2040471 <a href="/slideshow/2040471?page=0"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/cover.xlarge.jpg" alt="Five Great Things About Being Single!" title="Five Great Things About Being Single!" class="image xlarge inline left" /></a>Being single has its ups and downs, but today, in the spirit of kicking off our coverage of National Singles Week, I thought it would fun to embrace our single-hood! <br> Sometimes you don't miss something until it's gone so make sure you don't forget these five great things about being single. As always, let me know what I've missed! <a href="http://www.gettyimages.com">Source</a> <div id='pager' style='margin:25px auto;text-align:center;margin:8px; '><a href="/slideshow/2040471?page=0">Start Slideshow</a></div> http://dearsugar.com/slideshow/2040471#comment Alone Time Dating Friends Hobbies Relationships Single Singles Week Mon, 22 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2040471 http://dearsugar.com/2039639 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-2039639"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/2039639',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-2039639');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/medfr00182.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="450" width="300"></span>A few weekends ago, I ditched out on my long-time friend to hang out with a guy that I have feelings for. My friend and I had been planning on going to the movies, and when I canceled she got upset with me. Since I so rarely flake out, I immediately became irritated with her, and we ended the phone call on a very negative note. We didn't hang out that night, and I ended up going over to my date's house. </p> <p>Much later in the night, when I was fooling around with my crush, I got a text message from my friend saying that she needed to talk to me. I ignored it out of anger. A few minutes later she called me, and again, I ignored it. Not giving it much thought, I put my phone on silent. I was annoyed, but I figured I'd call her in the morning and we could talk about stuff then. The next day when I checked my phone, I had multiple missed calls from my friends, desperately trying to get ahold of me. </p> <p>As it turns out, my friend decided to go to the movie alone and on the way home, she had been assaulted by some young guys. They took her jewelry and her wallet. Needless to say, she was shaken up, but luckily they didn't hurt her and fortunately, she had her phone in her back pocket so she was able to call for help. As it turned out, she was trying to get ahold of me to meet her at the police station. She eventually got another friend to come get her, but I wasn't there to help her when she needed me most. I feel beyond horrible. I've seen her since and tried to talk her, but things are strained; I'm not sure I should even try explaining myself. I'm so torn up. Is what I did to her and our friendship ever forgivable? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a> <br clear=all></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/2039639" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Sunday Confessional: I Wasn&#039;t There When She Needed Me</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="2039639" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/2039639#comment Anger Friends Friendship Mistake Sunday Confessional Violence Sun, 21 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2039639 http://dearsugar.com/2032637 <p>I value my friends' opinions very much, and I <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1981069" >often turn to them when I’m feeling down</a>. But no matter how much I respect them as individuals, I have always tried to avoid the habit of comparing my love life to theirs. Not only do I not want admiration to lead to jealousy, but I also don’t want to find myself feeling smug about an issue they're dealing with. However, I’m sure some people use a comparison with their friends to get them motivated or avoid making a similar mistake. What about you? Where do you stand when it comes to making comparisons between your and your friends’ romantic lives? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/200284437-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="333" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2032637#comment differences Friends Friendship Where Do You Stand Fri, 19 Sep 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2032637 http://dearsugar.com/2037057 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/you-asked.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image preview" width="275" height="414"></span>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>My best guy friend and I have known each other for about eight years. We went to neighboring colleges, but after we graduated, we moved to different states. We kept in touch but didn't see each other like we usually did. Over the years, my feelings changed for him from friends to more than friends. I've had numerous conversations with him about it and he says he feels the same way but is afraid that if we take it to the next level, it will ruin our friendship. </p> <p>I recently came back from visiting him. Spending time with him made my feelings stronger. When I asked him how he felt, he couldn't give me a straight answer. He just said he doesn't want to mess up what we have. I don't want to ruin our friendship either, but I really think he could be the one for me. Can you give me any advice with this situation? I'm almost obsessing about it! Should I keep our relationship in the friend zone, or should I try to pursue something more? — Interested Irene </p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/2037057">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2037057#comment Advice Friends Relationships You Asked Fri, 19 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2037057 http://dearsugar.com/2021311 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/38_2008/200259410-001_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="475" width="315"></span>A friend recently confided in me about some issues she’s dealing with regarding her weight — something she's apparently been trying to manage for years. I was totally surprised by her admission; of course she has her <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1933116" >least favorite spot</a>, but she always comes off incredibly secure with her body. When I asked why she had never opened up to me about it before, she said that she was too embarrassed.</p> <p>And it’s true, anything related to our bodies — emotional issues, health concerns, and sex — can be very hard to talk about, but sometimes revealing such a personal matter can help you feel like you’re not alone. Do you agree? If you’re prone to body issues, does voicing them make you feel better? Worse? Or do you tend to just keep them all to yourself? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/2021311#comment A Do or a Don't body issues Friends support Wed, 17 Sep 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/2021311 http://dearsugar.com/1996033 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/37_2008/stk28742clb.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="325" width="325"></span>Admittedly, I haven’t always been the biggest fan of all my friends’ boyfriends, but even when I think they’re especially great guys, I still love spending time with just my friend. Of course, I’m happy to oblige a couple hangouts now and then, but in the end, I prefer time with my friends alone. I suppose it’s all about a healthy balance, but where do you stand in terms of spending time with your friends’ significant others? Are you just as happy to be with her <i>and</i> her boyfriend as you are to be with just her? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1996033#comment Boyfriend Friends socializing Where Do You Stand Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1996033 http://dearsugar.com/1983872 <p>There's nothing like a best friend! The importance of having someone you can turn to and trust without a moment of hesitancy is infinitely important in this hectic world. But the friendship that you have with a best friend is more than just the day-to-day stuff, it’s also about the memories you create with one another along the way. So let’s take a trip down memory lane and share the story of how you met your best friend!</p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/37_2008/dv443025_0.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="401" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1983872#comment Best Friend Do Tell Friends Memories Trust Sat, 13 Sep 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1983872 http://dearsugar.com/1950686 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/37_2008/you-asked1.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="295" height="443"></span>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>After seven years of dating my boyfriend, I broke up with him. I had known in my heart for a while that I couldn't marry him and I had been very unhappy for a long time. Among many other problems, I felt that he wasn't attentive enough. He tried in his way, but I was left lonely and miserable. My friends and family, seeing my loneliness, constantly told me I could do better and were probably tired of my complaining (I know I was).</p> <p>Our main contact was daily phone calls. He was one of the first people I called when anything happened. We talked when we were bored and just to hear the other's voice, but toward the end, I avoided him at all costs. So my question is this: Why do I feel so awful? I was fine immediately after the breakup — I knew I had to do it — but now I'm a wreck. I have been crying for days now. I feel terrible about breaking his heart and about my <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1933143" >passive-aggressive</a> treatment toward him for the last six months. I guess it comes down to the fact that we were best friends but terrible lovers, but I still can't help feeling a loss. Any suggestions? — Dumped Him Heidi</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1950686">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1950686#comment Advice Breakup Friends Relationships You Asked Tue, 09 Sep 2008 06:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1950686 http://dearsugar.com/1932937 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1932937"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1932937',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1932937');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/36_2008/skd229647sdc.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="459" width="300"></span>For the past year, my good friend has been going on and on about how she never meets guys and how she's doomed to be alone forever — she's only 26! She's a cute woman who's smart and successful, but she refuses to really put herself out there. Throughout numerous conversations, I've explained to her how to approach guys and talk to them — I'm single too — but she refuses to try and then just complains!</p> <p>On top of being depressed about her non-existent romantic life, she tends to be jealous of our other friends in relationships, or the single ones who are having dating success. I know the feeling of loneliness that comes from thinking everyone else is happy in love, but at this point it's hard for me to be sympathetic. Outside of these complaints she really is an amazing person, and a true friend, but I hit my limit. So out of desperation, a few weeks ago, I signed her up for a reputable online dating site without telling her. Her profile ended up getting a lot of interest. </p> <p>Pretending to be her, I started emailing with my top picks and narrowed it down to three guys who I thought would be great for her. Obviously they all wanted to meet up with her in person, so I had to tell her what I'd done. At that point, I figured she'd be so excited about the dates that she wouldn't be upset. Well, I was wrong; now she claims I'm not the good friend she thought I was and is ignoring my phone calls. I feel like she's completely overreacting, but our other friends are divided and it's creating a huge problem in our group. I really was just trying to make something happen for her, which she said she wanted. Shouldn't I be forgiven?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1932937" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Sunday Confessional: I Made Her an Online Dating Profile, Without Permission</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1932937" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1932937#comment Dating Friends Friendship online dating Sunday Confessional Sun, 07 Sep 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1932937 http://dearsugar.com/1909428 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/36_2008/stk130510rke.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="320" width="320"></span>Living with someone can give you an entirely new perspective, and unluckily it’s not always for the best. The close proximity created by a living space creates many opportunities for butting heads, and so I often hear people say that it’s better to live with someone you don’t know, rather than with a friend. It’s easy to lose a bad roommate but harder to lose a good friend. </p> <p>But I’ve never agreed. I think friends are the ideal roommates, as long as you’re aware that you’ll be facing their good along with their bad. But do you agree? Or do you think it's only a recipe for disaster? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1909428#comment Friends Friendship living situation Roommate Where Do You Stand Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1909428 http://dearsugar.com/1919506 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1919506"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1919506',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1919506');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>I’ve always found that a relationship is most convenient if each person gets along well with the other’s friends. A more communal social life seems to create harmony and minimizes chances for conflict. But even when friends are shared, there’s often a distinct difference between his friends and hers. Of course it depends entirely on the type of friendships you’ve created, but do you ever spend time with his friends when he's not around? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/36_2008/200488685-001.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="334" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1919506" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Do You Hang Out With His Friends Without Him?</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I do. They're both of our friends. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Sure, but only with certain friends.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, that's weird. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No. I like them, but we’re not on that level.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> I don’t even want to be around his friends when he’s there! </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1919506" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1919506#comment Boyfriend Dear Poll Friends hanging out Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1919506 http://dearsugar.com/1902195 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/200391117-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="230" width="350"></span>Every woman, even the ones that love <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1514033" >spending time at home</a> with their significant others, needs a night with their female friends every once and a while. But sometimes even our best intentions for making it a bonding extravaganza gets thrown by the wayside in the midst of drama. If you have a night out with your gal’s coming up, check out my tips for making it as successful and fun as possible. To see them </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1902195">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1902195#comment Advice Friends fun girls night out socializing The How-To Lounge Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1902195 http://dearsugar.com/1894093 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/200302143-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="450" width="300"></span>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>My family is in the process of moving, and while packing up some books, I noticed a number from an old friend from college. We stopped being friends over something stupid — I was young, and felt like I didn't need a friend — but that was two years ago. I was dropping both bad friends and good friends left and right; it wasn't a healthy time for me and shortly thereafter, I slipped into a depression and finally realized how important it is to keep people in your life. </p> <p>I've already reconnected with a high-school friend, however she's not someone I would call a best friend. My friend from college was someone who I could go out with and had real fun around, which is something I want to do again. I'm not a partier by any means, but I love the idea of getting dressed up with girlfriends for a cocktail. I really do want to reach out to her and see if she's open to a friendship again, but I'm terrified that she'll want nothing to do with me after the way I treated her. What should I do? How can I deal with it if she rejects me? </p> <p>— Time For Friends Again Angela,</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1894093">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1894093#comment Advice Friends Friendship Girlfriend Break-up starting over You Asked Wed, 27 Aug 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1894093 http://dearsugar.com/1892806 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1892806"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1892806',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1892806');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>Giving good advice isn't an easy task sometimes. In order to be unbiased, one has to really listen and offer suggestions for what's best for the person in need, not what's best for you. Without realizing it, it's easy for listeners to turn situations back onto themselves as a way to make other people feel better, but that can come off as selfish or uninterested. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/advice.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="510" height="335"></span> I have certain friends I go to for advice over and over again because they are fair. They understand my thought process and give me sound advice that I take to heart each and every time. While I enjoy giving my friends advice, I know playing therapist isn't easy for everyone so tell me, do you think you give good advice? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1892806" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Do You Give Good Advice? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I think I give great advice!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> To be honest, I'm not the best advice giver. Sometimes I think too irrationally. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please explain below. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1892806" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1892806#comment Advice Dear Poll Friends personality traits sad Wed, 27 Aug 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1892806 http://dearsugar.com/1891100 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/35_2008/stk130251rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="330" width="330"></span>Dear Sugar,</p> <p>I am a man looking for the advice of women since my male friends aren't sensitive enough to comprehend what I'm going through. I had been going out with this girl on and off for four and a half years. I truly loved her and she was my best friend. We were happy and we shared some of the best times of our lives. But a few months back, while I was on and she was off, she stopped talking to me all together. I tried desperately to get a hold of her but she never called or emailed me back. </p> <p>Finally she came around again and asked for some space. At first, I refused because I was scared of losing her again but I eventually respected her wishes and let her be on her own but we never called it quits officially; the relationship was simply put on hold. Not long after, I discovered that she had been seeing this other guy during her "time alone." When I confronted her about this, she said she only wanted to be my friend and lied about her new guy so that I would stay friends with her. Feeling betrayed and led on, I told her that she was out of my life for good and that I could never be friends with someone who would break my heart so easily. </p> <p>Two weeks later I'm still in agony over losing a girl I considered to be my soul mate. I need help deciding whether or not I should try to forgive her and talk things through with her. Could we ever be friends again (maybe more)? Or should I wipe the slate clean and forget about her completely?</p> <p>— Broken-Hearted Brandon</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1891100">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1891100#comment Advice Breakup Ex-Girlfriend forgiveness Friends You Asked Tue, 26 Aug 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1891100 http://dearsugar.com/1882775 <p>It seems like along the way, every family manages to gain a few secrets or drama-filled issues. And often the family gossip can have a serious effect on your day-to-day life. As with all personal strife, it’s natural to want to talk it out with friends, but sometimes spilling family news can feel a bit disloyal. So where do you stand on sharing your family drama with friends? What about your significant other? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/200209914-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="320" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1882775#comment Boundaries Family Friends Friendship Privacy Secrets Where Do You Stand Mon, 25 Aug 2008 07:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1882775 http://dearsugar.com/1885449 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/dear.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="308"></span><br><br>DearSugar and Crushing Casey need your help. She's fallen for her best guy friend but he's currently in a relationship with someone else. She expressed her feelings, but he didn't say much in return. What should she do? Pursue or let it be? </p> <p>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>I'm in love with a good friend of mine. I confessed my feelings to him recently and we talked it over. He's currently dating another girl, and I told him that it is what it is, and I just wanted to let him know how I felt so I wouldn't regret not saying anything at all somewhere down the line. He understands, but never exactly expressed how he felt.</p> <p>We've been talking a lot lately, but more as friends than anything I think. I don't want to cross the line since he is seeing someone else, but it's getting harder and harder by the second — I just want to be with him! I've been keeping a certain distance, but I don't want him to think I'm not interested anymore. I don't know if I should keep waiting for him, but I can't imagine giving up on us. Should I date other people or hold out for hope? — Crushing Casey</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1885449#comment Dating DearSugar Needs Your Help Friends Love Relationships Sat, 23 Aug 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1885449 http://dearsugar.com/1880435 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/34_2008/work.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image preview" width="337" height="506"></span>Even if you don't spend time with your work buddies outside of the office, you've probably made some pretty good "work friends" — you know those people you can vent to, share exciting news with, and gossip. And when the going gets tough between nine and five, they are the only ones that can understand your frustration so it's no wonder we all rely so much on them. And I know it's not the most PC thing to do, but it's pretty common to vent about other people in the office to those trusted confidants. I'll admit that I do it on occasion so do tell, do you talk about other co-workers, even your boss, to your friends at work? Don't worry, I won't tattle on you!</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1880435#comment Co-Workers Do Tell Friends frustration Gossip Office work friends Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1880435 http://dearsugar.com/1864723 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1864723"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1864723',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1864723');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/33_2008/dv1118024.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="275" width="350"></span>On a recent adventure out into the bar scene with a friend, I had the delight of playing wing woman for the evening. And let me just say I was a success — she already has a second date lined up! But it made me realize just how much practice I have at playing that particular role in my friends' dating lives. In fact, sometimes it seems like I can’t go out without making an assist of some sort. So what about you? Are you like me? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1864723" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Do You Play Wing Woman? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I play wing woman all the time, too! </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I only do it if the situation absolutely requires it or if my friend begs me. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No. I’m not into the whole wing-woman thing. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> Other — I'll explain.</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1864723" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1864723#comment bars Dating Dear Poll Friends personality traits Thu, 14 Aug 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1864723 http://dearsugar.com/1859200 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/33_2008/200226957-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="230" width="350"></span>Dear Sugar,</p> <p>Recently I read the post about <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1850467" >communicating with friends if a problem arises</a>, and it got me thinking about my own situation. Right now I am torn as to whether or not I should confront my best friend from childhood. We've always been very close and open with one another, but as we are getting older, I have noticed some changes. Sometimes it seems like we're just growing into different people and I feel like we have very little in common these days. </p> <p>Not too long ago we went to a BBQ together and she brought up something I had told her in confidence that was very personal and embarrassing in front of people I didn't know. I had had a few drinks and was so shocked by what she was saying that I took a passive approach to the situation and never said anything. The more I think about it, the more hurt I feel. I can't help but wonder why she would want to do something like that to me — it almost felt intentional. How should I confront her about this?</p> <p>— Hurt Hailey</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1859200">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1859200#comment Advice Communication Conflict Feelings Friends sadness You Asked Tue, 12 Aug 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1859200 http://dearsugar.com/1853181 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/32_2008/stk144156rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="315" width="315"></span>When you initially make friends with someone, it’s almost always because you have something in common and enjoy each other’s company. But as time flies by and life changes, sometimes the things that brought you together and the activities you enjoyed doing together change. </p> <p>I’ve distanced myself from a few friends over the years whose lifestyle was no longer conducive to my own — they still want to party every night, and I like to be in bed at a reasonable hour. It’s amazing how changes in social life can make a difference in a friendship. Ladies, do tell: do you find this to be the case with your friends, too? Are you and your friends socially compatible still, or not so much? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1853181#comment Do Tell Friends Friendship growing up socializing Sun, 10 Aug 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1853181 http://dearsugar.com/1853264 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1853264"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1853264',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1853264');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p>I've been close with my best friend for nearly eight years. We were roommates in our freshman year of college, and have been practically inseparable ever since. About a year ago she started dating a guy whom we met through a friend of mine. At the time we both had a goofy crush on him, and when they started dating I was happy for her. But as their relationship developed, my feelings for him only grew. We all spend a lot of time together, and I've come to know him really well. I won't go into all the reasons why I feel such a connection with him, but my feelings are incredibly strong. It's gotten to the point where I can't be around them together without experiencing a lot of frustration and sadness. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/32_2008/200315357-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="350" width="350"></span></p> <p>On the one hand, I'm glad my friend's happy, but on the other, I wish it was me. Though I would never compromise my friendship or their relationship by acting on my emotions, I still feel incredibly guilty for spending so much time thinking about my best friend's man, and even worse, secretly wishing things wouldn't work out for them. Can I be forgiven for these inappropriate feelings? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1853264" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Sunday Confessional: I Have Feelings For My Best Friend&#039;s Boyfriend</label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Not forgive?</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Undecided — Please explain!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1853264" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1853264#comment Crush Friends guilt Love Sunday Confessional Sun, 10 Aug 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1853264 http://dearsugar.com/1851098 <p>You’ve been close with your best friend since you were kids, and you’ve witnessed her love life every step of the way. After a difficult end to a doomed engagement, she’s been having a hard time moving on. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/32_2008/medfr10636.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="334" width="500"></span></p> <p>Next thing you know she’s taken up with a man 20 years older than her. He spoils her rotten, and seems to care about her deeply. You know some people think that <a href="http://dearsugar.com/751064" >age is just a number</a>, but something about their relationship dosen’t sit right with you — from what you know, it seems like he’s made a habit out of dating young women. Now she’s confiding in you that she sees herself marrying him, so how do <i>you</i> handle this? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1851098#comment age difference Best Friend Friends Handle This Relationships support Fri, 08 Aug 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1851098 http://dearsugar.com/1850467 <p>Whenever a problem should arise in a relationship, communication is nearly always the best method to finding the solution, but is that true for friendships as well? Friendships aren’t meant to be a challenge, so it seems almost counterintuitive to assume that there will be issues you have to work through, but as we all know, stuff does come up even between the best of friends. So when it does, do you just take the hands-off approach and let things work out (or not) naturally? Or do you think it’s best to apply those communication skills to your friendships, too? </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/32_2008/FD005230.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="330" width="500"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1850467#comment A Do or a Don't Best Friend Communication Conflict Friends Friendship Relationships Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1850467 http://dearsugar.com/1811440 <p>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>My boyfriend and I have had a two-year relationship that is loving, exciting, and strong in all respects. My only concerns stem from the fact that he maintains contact with several females who he once had romantic relationships with. He sees them on occasion when he and his friends hang out — they're part of his group. They also phone and text him occasionally to say hi, and I'm not naive enough to believe he doesn’t initiate contact once in a while. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/30_2008/200260296-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height=230" width="350"></span>I’ve told him multiple times that his unwillingness to cut ties with these women makes me feel extremely insecure. He swears that they are <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/just+friends" >just friends</a>, he has no romantic feelings for them, and he broke up with them all for a reason. He tells me that he is an adult and should be allowed to have <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1779362" >platonic friendships with the opposite sex</a> as long as nothing inappropriate is going on. He also insists that I should trust him because he’s done nothing to make me do otherwise. This man is not my husband or fianc&eacute;, so I'm nearly ready to say that either these friendships go, or I go. </p> <p>The fact that he is not changing something that causes me anxiety makes me wonder whether he values me and my feelings. I've felt this man was my soul mate and he’s shown me in many other ways that he loves and adores me, but is this issue enough to leave somebody over? It’s making me feel so insecure. Where do I go from here?</p> <p>— Not So Friendly Nell</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer, </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1811440">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1811440#comment Advice Boyfriend Problems Friends just friends platonic You Asked Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1811440 http://dearsugar.com/1799589 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/stk144419rke.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right image preview" height="325" width="325"></span>Sometimes it seems like we spend so much time focusing on new ways to go on a date or enjoy time with our guy that we forget there's an entire world of ideas for spending time with just our girlfriends. So in support of hanging with your ladies, I've come up with some ideas to make for a memorable time. But feel free to weigh in with other ideas of your own! </p> <ul> <li style="width:550px;">Host a good old-fashioned cocktail party with a signature drink and appetizers. Spice it up by asking your friends to each bring their favorite dessert. When you're not munching on finger foods, you can indulge your sweet tooth. <li> <li>Get active. Slip on your tennis shoes and hit the courts, or pick a safe trail in your town and go for a hike. If guys can have pick-up football games, why can't girls have impromptu sunset strolls?</li> <li>Take turns giving dinner parties and trading recipes. It's a fun way to bond and learn something new!</li> <p>To see my other ideas, just </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1799589">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1799589#comment adventure Advice Friends fun socializing Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1799589 http://dearsugar.com/1804761 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1804761"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1804761',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1804761');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/30_2008/phone.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image preview" width="337" height="506"></span>In this day and age, where most of us carry a <a href="http://www.geeksugar.com/tags/Blackberry" rel="nofollow">BlackBerry</a>, a cell phone, an <a href="http://www.geeksugar.com/tags/iPhone" rel="nofollow">iPhone</a>, or maybe even all three, it's easier than ever to get ahold of people. My mom, for instance, <i>always</i> has her phone with her, no matter the day or the time. Then there's my <a href="http://dearsugar.com/481905" rel="nofollow">BFF</a>, who is notorious for never answering her phone and lagging on her email responses. While I understand the need to disconnect every once in a while, I love knowing that I can always rely on certain people in my life to answer my call or return my text. Where do you fall on the accessibility spectrum? Are you one that always has your phone out on the table, just in case, or do you prefer to remain a little out of touch? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1804761" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Are You Easy to Get Ahold Of? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> I'm the easiest person to contact. I <i>always</i> have my phone with me — I even sleep with it on my bedside table!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> I never have my phone with me, I just rely on my friends carrying theirs. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please explain. </label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1804761" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1804761#comment blackberry connected Dear Poll Family Friends iphone phone reliable Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1804761 http://dearsugar.com/1796565 <p>Whether you’re the kind of couple that prefers to <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1605333" >spend time with other couples</a> or just <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1514033" >hang alone at home</a>, eventually there comes a time when you have to socialize in a larger group setting. Some couples are born to work the crowd; they interact with everyone and then come back and connect with each other every once and a while. They never make anyone feel uncomfortable by <a href="http://dearsugar.com/944140" >arguing</a> or <a href="http://dearsugar.com/772075" >being too affectionate</a>. In essence, even if you’re single or taken, they’re the perfect couple to spend time with. </p> <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/73106079.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="332" width="500"></span></p> <p>But, unfortunately, there’s also the other extreme — the couple that you’d never want to be stuck with for more than a moment. Do you know any couples like this? Although we've all had our moments, tell me, are you a good couple to hang out with? And does it depend on the couple or each individual in a relationship? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1796565#comment Couples Friends personality traits Relationship Protocol socializing Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1796565 http://dearsugar.com/1794202 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/200344244-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="450" width="300"></span>Your friend has always had an insecure streak in the midst of large groups. She tends to become a different person, you assume as a way to compensate for her own fears that the real her just isn’t good enough. But lately she seems to be taking this to a new level. </p> <p>At a recent party with a group of some of your other friends, you overhear her <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/lying" >lying</a> about what she does, where she lives, and where she went to college. She then proceeds to make up a completely phony story involving you. You’re shocked that she’d just blatantly lie to <i>your friends</i> and you think this should be addressed. It's going to be an awkward situation so how would <i>you</i> handle this? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1794202#comment embarrassed Friends Friendship Handle This Lying Fri, 18 Jul 2008 10:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1794202 http://dearsugar.com/1788505 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1788505"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1788505',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1788505');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/56678183.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="330" width="330"></span>Though many of you have had perfectly platonic relationships with friends of the <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1779362" rel="nofollow">opposite sex</a>, inarguably, there are certain friendships that can leave one person wanting more than the other. While the fear of ruining a friendship can help squash these feelings, sometimes the attraction and connection is so strong that a person can’t help but put themselves out there regardless the consequences. So what I want to know is, have you ever had someone break the <a href="http://dearsugar.com/tags/just+friends" rel="nofollow">just-friends</a> rule with you? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1788505" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="poll"> <div class="vote-form"> <div class="choices"><div class="form-item"> <label>Dear Poll: Have You Ever Had a Friend Cross the Line? </label> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="0" class="form-radio" /> Yes, I did have a friend try to make our relationship more, and I wasn't interested.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="1" class="form-radio" /> Yea, and now I'm glad they did!</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="2" class="form-radio" /> No, my friends have just stayed friends. </label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="3" class="form-radio" /> No one has ever crossed the line, but I've had the feeling that they would have liked to.</label> </div> <div class="form-item"> <label class="option"><input type="radio" name="edit[choice]" value="4" class="form-radio" /> Other — Please Share!</label> </div> </div> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[nid]" id="edit-nid" value="1788505" /> <input type="submit" name="op" value="Vote" class="form-submit" /> </div><input type="hidden" name="edit[form_id]" id="edit-form_id" value="epoll_view_voting" /> </div> </div></form> <!-- no strip poll --></noscript><!-- no strip poll --> http://dearsugar.com/1788505#comment Dear Poll Friends Friendship just friends more than friends Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1788505 http://dearsugar.com/1785394 <p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/sad.jpg" alt="" title="" class="right outline image preview" width="313" height="313"></span>Dear Sugar, </p> <p>My boyfriend just broke up with me last Wednesday. Deep down I know he is not good enough for me and that I could do better, but it still hurts so much. I can't sleep and I don't want to eat. I try to stay busy, but even when I'm out with friends, my heartache prevents me from having a good time. Do you know how to get rid of the pain? I check my phone every half hour (even when I am sleeping at night) in hopes that he'll reach out to me, but I haven't heard a peep. Why am I still so hung up on someone I knew I wasn't going to end up with? — In Need of Relief Rachel</p> <p>To see DearSugar's answer </p> <p><a href="http://dearsugar.com/1785394">read more</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1785394#comment Breakup Dating Friends Relationships sad You Asked Thu, 17 Jul 2008 06:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1785394 http://dearsugar.com/1784636 <p>When we meet someone new or find ourselves with that <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1750154" >butterfly feeling</a>, the natural inclination is to share the news with friends, family, and whoever else might listen. There’s so much pleasure in going over the details of a chance encounter or eye-opening date, but sometimes sharing too much too soon can lead to feelings of embarrassment and rejection if things don’t work out.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/29_2008/200226126-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="image preview" height="331" width="500"></span></p> <p>It’s fun to talk about a guy asking for your number, but it can be painful to later disclose that he never called. While I love to hear about my friends’ escapades no matter the outcome, I understand when they <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1772689" >keep things under wraps</a> until they get more serious. Does this ring true for you? Do you tend to spread the word about a new love interest? Or do you think it’s better to keep it quiet at first until you have an idea of how things will pan out? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1784636#comment A Do or a Don't Dating Friends Privacy Relationships Secrets Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1784636 http://dearsugar.com/1779362 <p>Quite rightly, opinions vary about whether or not men and women can truly be <a href="http://dearsugar.com/245373" ><i>just</i> friends</a> as everyone has encountered different situations from which to draw their point of view. And things only get more complicated when you’re in a relationship. <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/28_2008/medfr02699.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="254" width="350"></span></p> <p>I’ve always figured that once you’re in a serious relationship, friendships of the opposite sex would naturally fade away. Once you have a special someone it’s hard enough to keep your friends of the <i>same sex</i>, let alone members of the opposite. Maybe it's just a matter of the difference between a casual acquaintance and a true friend. But if so, where do you draw the line? Do you think having any friends of the opposite sex when you’re in a serious relationship is unusual? Or do you think it’s completely normal and reasonable?</p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1779362#comment Couples Friends Friendship just friends Relationship Protocol Relationships Mon, 14 Jul 2008 11:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1779362 http://dearsugar.com/1764774 <p>While I’m always open and friendly, I try not to buddy up to my friends’ significant others — I don’t want to overstep any boundaries or get too involved in someone else’s relationship. But over time, especially if it’s a long-term and serious relationship, it’s inevitable for a kinship to blossom between yourself and a friend’s significant other — you spend time together, swap stories, and end up at the same events.<span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/28_2008/200390931-001.preview.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left image preview" height="230" width="350"></span></p> <p>But when a friend tells you that the relationship is over, suddenly a person you came to know, surprisingly well, is just gone. Admittedly, I’ve felt losses after my friend’s breakups, but from personal experience I’ve learned it’s best to avoid staying friends with a friend’s ex — it can lead to drama and the sensation of being stuck in the middle. It’s too complicated for me, but what have your own relationships taught you? Is keeping in touch with their ex worth it even if it could affect your friendship? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1764774#comment A Do or a Don't Ex Friends keeping in touch Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1764774 http://dearsugar.com/1763234 <p>Juggling friends, family, work, a relationship, and time for yourself is not an easy endeavour to master. If you're one that suffers from the <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1705228" >Do-it-all disease</a>, finding time for everyone can be exhausting, which is why balance is key. But when your heart wants to do one thing and your head another, you can easily feel overwhelmed and resentful of those things you feel like you <i>have to do</i> (visiting grandma, sitting down for that phone date you've been putting off, etc.) One can only do her best so where do you stand on managing your time? Do you feel like it's important to be strict about it, or do you believe that time is precious and we should spend it doing more of what we <i>want</i> and less of what we <i>should</i>.<br /> <span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/28_2008/clock.jpg" alt="" title="" class="outline image preview" width="506" height="337"></span></p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" target="_blank">Source</a></p> http://dearsugar.com/1763234#comment commitment Family Friends quality time Where Do You Stand Tue, 08 Jul 2008 09:00:00 -0700 DearSugar http://dearsugar.com/1763234 http://dearsugar.com/1757351 <!-- no strip poll --><div id="epoll-view-1757351"></div><script type="text/javascript">new Ajax.Request('/epoll/view/1757351',{method:'get',onSuccess:function(transport){var epoll=$('epoll-view-1757351');epoll.update(transport.responseText);}});</script><noscript><p><p><span class="inline left"><img src="http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl1/0/3362/27_2008/work.jpg" alt="" title="" class="left outline image preview" width="270"></span>Since we spend most of our time at work, it's inevitable that our co-workers become more than that; they become our friends, our confidants, and our sounding boards. And since having gripes about our loved ones, dealing with <a href="http://dearsugar.com/1754527 " rel="nofollow">family drama</a>, or even financial woes is just a part of life, it's close to impossible to leave those worries at home. I've always been the type to wear my emotions on my sleeve — I'll confide in co-workers as I would friends and family — but I know many people who are opposed to mixing business with <i>anything</i> personal. If you think about it, it's a good idea to draw the line somewhere, but no one way is better; so tell me, do you talk about your personal life at work or do you keep the two completely separate? </p> <p><a href="http://www.gettyimages.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Source</a></p> </p><!-- no strip poll --><form action="/1757351" method="post" id="epoll_view_voting"> <div><div class="po